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In light of the recent events in the Twin Cities, state Rep. Peggy Bennett, R-Albert Lea, announced Wednesday she is organizing a food and supply donation drive to help the communities impacted by destroyed businesses in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

“The people in our area are so giving during times of need,” Bennett said in a press release. “My hope is we can collect a significant amount of nonperishable items over the next week and help those families who are really struggling right now.”

Bennett said Morris Furniture, 1909 E. Main St. in Albert Lea, will serve as the drop-off site for the food and supplies. The collection will take place from June 13 through June 20. Items will be collected during normal business hours: from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.

Items needed include bagged rice, canned goods, boxed cereal, bottled water, diapers and wet wipes, laundry detergent and bars of soap. Items should be brought in boxes or paper bags.