United Bank is kicking off its annual food drive to assist needy families across its southwest Alabama and northwest Florida footprint.

The annual “United We Can” food drive began Monday, Nov. 17, and will offer employees, customers and local residents the opportunity to donate canned and boxed goods at United Bank branches through Dec. 12.

The collected items will be distributed by the Bay Area Food Bank to help fight hunger throughout the holiday season.

“Managing your finances and preparing for the future often take a back seat when you’re concerned about feeding your family,” said Bob Jones, president and CEO of United Bank and Bay Area Food Bank board member. “As a hometown bank, we understand that helping to meet the most basic needs ensures a better tomorrow for our customers and communities.”

Donations for United We Can will be accepted at specially designated areas in each bank branch. As part of the food drive, the bank is asking donors to focus on items that can be used for the holidays, such as boxed stuffing, canned corn, green beans and rice; however, all items will be appreciated.

Through the Bay Area Food bank’s distribution network and partnerships in Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, donors can be certain items they give will help families in their local areas. In United’s Atmore market, donations will specifically benefit Atmore Area Christian Care Ministries, a Bay Area Food Bank partner.

For more information about United Bank or the United We Can food drive, please call Greg Walker, vice president of marketing and communications, at (251) 605-4477, or email greg.walker@unitedbank.com.