LEWISTON — The United Way of Androscoggin County has launched Pantry Project, an initiative to keep food pantry shelves stocked long after the traditional holiday season of giving.

The Pantry Project will benefit 19 food pantries in the local area. Employees at different locations every month will collect donations of nonperishable food and personal care items and donate them to a food pantry of their choice.

“In all, the Pantry Project will place portable shelving units in more than 25 companies between now and July,” said Joleen Bedard, executive director of United Way. “Our goal is to provide 1,500 meals a month for a total of 7,500 between February and July.”

According to the latest figures, 17,000 people in Androscoggin County live below the poverty level. Those who struggle financially are often forced to choose between paying for rent, gas, heat, medications or buying food. Eighty percent of households that receive food support have children under the age of 12 years old.

“We’re hoping that this initiative will provide the influx of food donations needed to meet the escalating need we’re seeing in the community,” said Bedard. “No one should go hungry.”

To participate in Pantry Project or for more information, contact the United Way of Androscoggin County at 795-4000.