This year, return thanks for your blessings, but don’t forget the “giving” portion of the holiday as well.

Dr. Bruce Schneider of Schneider Chiropractic has been doing his part for the past nine years through his annual Thanksgiving Food Drive.

“I’ve always believed in community service, and we usually get a tremendous response,” said Schneider. “This community cares a lot about its people. They’ve always been very generous.”

All donated food will go to the Food Bank of North Carolina and will benefit needy families in Johnston County. The drive will run until November 16. All food must be non-perishable items, such as canned goods and pasta. Items can be dropped off at Schneider’s office, located

at 81 Glen Road in the Food Lion shopping center at 40 and 42. For more information, contact the office at 661-2225.

“The way I was raised, important values like giving back were stressed to me as a kid,” said Schneider. “I was fortunate growing up that I never experienced hunger, but there are others out there who don’t have food to eat. That’s what motivates me to give back.

In December, Schneider will be holding his annual toy drive, so readers are encouraged to be on the lookout for and participate in that event as well.

Thanksgiving brings to mind families gathering around a table heaped with steaming platters of turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce. But there are some families in the community who go hungry year round, an especially devastating thought around a holiday that’s centered on food.