UTICA, N.Y. – The Utica Food Pantry’s virtual food drive began Monday, allowing people to purchase food donations online from the comfort of their own homes while many are in self-isolation.

Anyone interested in donating can choose items to purchase at: yougivegoods.com. The food will then be delivered directly to the pantry, where they can distribute it to those in need.

"It allows an individual to actually purchase food that will be distibuted to those in need during thie pandemic. You can go right to the website, click, from the comfort of their home and purchase food. Things we need at the pantry," said Armand Mastraccio, consultant at the Utica Food Pantry.

Food pantries across New York have seen significant upticks in need throughout their communities as the coronavirus pandemic continues.

Utica’s virtual food drive, held in conjunction with Berkshire Bank, will continue through May 8.

For more information, visit the Utica Food Pantry’s Facebook page.