Oxford Tavern Food Drive to Run Year-Round

Oxford Tavern's food drive to aid East Bay Community Action's food pantries is enjoying a modest success so far this year, and Alex Manchester, the bar's owner, has decided to run it year-round.

"We're going to do it year-round so we can get people used to contributing throughout the year," Manchester said Friday. Though he didn't have photographic evidence - due to high need, the food is picked up by EBCA as fast as it piles up, Manchester said people have been contributing. "It's been good," he said.

People interested in making a donation can drop food off at the tavern, 446 Waterman Ave., Tuesday through Saturday from 4:30 to 11 p.m.

Right after Thanksgiving, Manchester will also begin a toy drive to benefit EBCA's efforts, in partnership with the Ocean State Jeepsters, he said. People are encouraged to switch their donations from food to unwrapped toys for kids.

Manchester said his Tavern will also be open for Small Business Saturday next weekend, so there'll be a place to catch some food and drink during any shopping sprees that may be going on that day.