For the next two weeks in Esquimalt, garbage collectors are picking up more than your trash.

Municipal employees are collecting food donations in support of Esquimalt Neighbourhood House, a multi-service social service agency that provides emergency meals to people in need.

The 13th annual Christmas food drive takes place now until Dec. 14. To participate, place your non-perishable food donations in bags labeled “food drive” and put them alongside your garbage bin on collection day.

Food bags will be gathered from houses north of Old Esquimalt Road until Dec. 7. The bags will be picked up at homes south of there from Dec. 10 to 14.

Food donations are also being accepted at municipal hall, 1229 Esquimalt Rd., and the public works yard, 601 Canteen Rd.

dpalmer@vicnews.com