DeKalb area charity Feed ‘Em Soup will hold a food drive with DeKalb area police departments.

The food drive will benefit the table Feed ‘Em Soup sets up for those who attend their biweekly community meals.

“The table is a portable food pantry,” said Matthew Austin, volunteer for Feed ‘Em Soup. “We aim not just to feed people that one night, but to feed them the rest of the week.”

The DeKalb Police Department, 200 S. Fourth St., will work with Feed ‘Em Soup to collect items.

“We have a box in the office,” said DeKalb Police Detective Angel Reyes. “Anyone can drop stuff off. The Sheriff’s Office has one too.”

Feed ‘Em Soup exists to provide the less fortunate with things they might not otherwise have access to.

“Our mission is to offer free meals, support, encouragement and opportunities to those who need them,” said Randi Kennedy, Feed ‘Em Soup director.

The drive is looking for other items in addition to non-perishable foods.

“We could use any canned goods or boxed items, as well as paper goods, like plates or cups.” Austin said.

Feed ‘Em Soup holds its biweekly meals and food table at First Lutheran Church, 324 N. Third St., while work is being completed on a more permanent building.

The kitchen will be located in the downtown area of DeKalb, Kennedy said. Until then, the meals and table are open on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 5 p.m at the church, said Pastor Marilyn Hanson of First Lutheran Church. The drive will run until Oct. 15.

The DeKalb Police Department will accept donations any time of day or night.

“People just need to bring their items to the office,” Reyes said. “Tell them to give it to Detective Reyes, and I’ll make sure it goes in the box.”