Plans are in full gear for the Maltby Food Bank’s charity auction and dinner to be held in September. Food Bank volunteers are currently collecting donations of goods and services from local businesses and individuals to auction off at the fundraiser.

Local businesses and individuals are urged to donate fun prizes, dream trips, and fantasy gifts in order to obtain high bids from auction attendees. Big-ticket items make the live auction more exciting for the participants, while smaller donations are also welcome for the silent auction.

Donations procured so far include a one-week stay at an Italian Villa from Maremma Tours and two round-trip tickets on Southwest Airlines. All donations must be received by Aug. 14.

Another important way businesses can support the Maltby Food Bank is by becoming an event sponsor. There are several sponsorship levels suited for any size donation: table sponsor, auction sponsor, program book sponsor, and more.

The goal of the Maltby Food Bank is to continue improving processes for acquiring and distributing food, personal care items, school supplies, and holiday gifts to families in need. Providing nutritious food, including dairy products and fresh produce year round, is a high priority.

The charity auction and dinner will be held on Sept. 12 at The Golf Club at Echo Falls. The event is sponsored by the Langston Family of Snohomish and will be hosted by auctioneer Kevin Van Hollebeke.

To donate, sponsor, volunteer or receive an invitation to the event, contact committee chair Kristine Willson at 206-854-1182 or auctionchair@maltbyfoodbank.org. Donations may also be made on the auction website bit.ly/MaltbyAuction2015. For updates and more information about the Maltby Food Bank, visit the website maltbyfoodbank.org and Facebook page facebook.com/MaltbyFoodBank.