Windstream, a provider of advanced network communications and technology solutions, continues its plans to support hunger relief efforts in North Carolina by holding a canned food donation drive at its Albemarle retail store on 250 N. First St. through Friday.

According to the aid group Feeding America, more than 1.5 million people in North Carolina — that’s one in seven North Carolinians — struggle with food insecurity and more than 479,000 of those are children.

Windstream has set out collection bins that employees, customers and visitors may fill with non-perishable food items in cans, boxes, and unopened and non-refrigerated containers for delivery to Stanly Community Christian Ministry.

“Windstream is committed to the communities where we live and work,” said Rhonda Beardsley, Albemarle retail store manager. “The average cost of a meal in North Carolina is $2.88. If this canned food drive can help families focus on their other financial responsibilities, then we are more than happy to help. We encourage everyone who can to join Windstream in the fight against hunger.”

Along with items such as canned meats, vegetables and granola bars, donors might consider laundry detergent, toiletries and resealable bags and containers.

For more information, visit a local Windstream retail location or blog.windstream.com.