LEXINGTON, Ky. — Mayor Linda Gorton is calling on residents to donate to Lexington's Big Give, a citywide food drive running from October 15 through November 30 to support families in need during the holiday season and beyond.

The initiative is a partnership between the City of Lexington, God's Pantry Food Bank, the Lexington Police Department, Lexington Fire Department, and other local agencies including the Fayette County Sheriff's Office and Fayette County Clerk's Office. WKYT serves as the media partner.

"Last year, we launched Lexington's Big Give after concerns were raised about families across Fayette County needing food assistance. And, no surprise, Lexington gave big!" Gorton said. "This year, many family budgets are stretched even more. I'm asking the community to come together once again to ensure that our friends and neighbors have food."

The 2024 campaign proved successful, with donors contributing 105,815 pounds of food, sufficient for 88,179 meals, plus $6,000 in monetary donations to God's Pantry Food Bank. Donation locations are being established throughout Lexington to make it convenient for residents to participate.

Gorton emphasized the community's historical generosity in responding to local needs. "Lexington always shows up, and shows up big," she said. "Lexington people give and care whenever there's a need to help their neighbors."