Seamen’s Bank will be collecting food at all five of its locations for the Lower Cape Outreach Council throughout the month of February.

"Seamen’s is Cape Cod’s first community bank and we fully understand the Cape’s seasonal economy. While we’ve long supported Lower Cape Outreach financially, this year we want to do more," John Roderick, president of Seaman’s said in a statement. "Our employees are enthusiastically behind this effort and we’re looking forward to getting the community involved."

Last year, through its eight food pantries, the LCOC provided $650,000 in food for 5,400 households from Harwich to Provincetown and distributed food monthly to Councils on Aging, the Children’s Place and WIC. According to Larry Marsland, LCOC executive director, February is the month of greatest need and lowest level of donations.

"Lower Cape Outreach is about neighbors helping neighbors and Seamen’s Bank is definitely a responsible, helping neighbor. We’re damned grateful," said Marsland in a statement.

Food items that are particularly needed include canned fruit, chili, beef stew, corned beef hash, baked beans, cooking oil, peanut butter and rice. Paper towels, soap and toothpaste are also in great demand.