Residents can help fight hunger and make the holidays brighter for those in need by donating food items or money to Southwest King County food banks.

Food banks rely on donations for 80 to 90 percent of the assistance they receive -- and, as the number of families seeking assistance this year has indicated, the need is greater than ever.

Those who want to help their neighbors in need can:

Donate food -- Protein items such as meat, fish, peanut butter, and powdered milk are always in demand, as are canned goods such as fruits, vegetables and peanut butter, and fresh produce.

Volunteer -- Helpers are always needed to prepare and serve food, clean up after meals, pick up food donations, and provide other support.

Make a financial contribution -- Cash donations help food banks buy large quantities of food at discount prices, pay for the transportation of donated food, or purchase other needed supplies.

Southwest King County food banks and their locations are:

Highline Area Food Bank, 18300 Fourth Ave. S., Burien (Post Office Box 66427, Burien, WA 981166); phone 206-433-9900.

Federal Way Food Bank, 1200 S. 336th St.; phone 253-838-6810.

Des Moines Area Food Bank, 22225 Ninth Ave. S.; phone 206-878-2660.

Tukwila Pantry, 3118 S. 140th St.; phone 206-431-8293.

West Seattle Food Bank, 3518 S.W. Genesee St.; phone 206-932-9023.

White Center Food Bank, 10829 Eighth Ave. S.W.; phone 206-762-2848.