South County Outreach is in “dire” need of supplies to held families during the summer months of June and early August, when requests for food assistance are typically at an all-time high.

The Irvine-based nonprofit says it has a significant shortage of essential items to stock its food market.

“Summer is typically a slower time for donations, but the need for food assistance doesn’t take a vacation,” said LaVal Brewer, President & CEO of South County Outreach. “We rely heavily on the generosity of our community to help us provide nutritious food to individuals and families in need. Every donation, big or small, makes a tremendous impact.”

Key food items include canned fruit, pasta, sauce, jelly, cereal, canned tuna and chicken and other staples.

Donations can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday at the food market at 7 Whatney, Suite B in Irvine. On Fridays, donations can be made from 9 a.m. to noon.

For anyone who wants to make a monetary donation, go to sco-oc.org/donate. For other ways to help the nonprofit, go to sco-oc.org/get-involved or contact Lauren Ruiz at lruiz@sco-oc.org or 949-687-2410.