BETHEL – A food drive, sponsored by the Bethel Masonic Lodge, is filling the shelves at the Bethel Food Pantry.

“We want to make the families in need aware there is a place to go for help. There doesn’t have to be a flood or a hurricane to put people in a place where they need assistance. And the need for food doesn’t stop after the holiday food drives are over. A lot of people don’t need help forever, but sometimes unforeseen things happen, and it’s easier to know the food pantry is available and full” said Randy Autrey, Bethel Masonic Lodge master.

While the need for nonperishable food is always great, cash donations will be used to pay for perishable goods, such as fresh meat and vegetables, bread and milk. Anyone wishing to make donation to the food pantry, or anyone in need of assistance, should contact the Bethel Town Office.

Lori McPherson of Brooks Bros., in an effort to get more people involved, has planned a “Snow Volleyball Challenge” for 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at the BIG Adventure Center, Route 2. Games will take place “snow or shine.”

“We encourage anyone to bring a team (two to six people), or come alone and join a team already in place. So ladies, challenge the men. Freshmen challenge seniors. One business challenge another. You get the drift,” said McPherson.

Adult teams must be age 14 and over. Junior teams are 13 and under. Contact McPherson by Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 357-3862 or 364-3145 to sign up.

There is no admission fee to play or to watch, but there will be a donation box. Anyone making a donation will receive $1 off laser tag for the day until 3 p.m.