With nearly 2,000 people served this month at the Samaritan Center, a 6,000-pound donation has restored the center's pantry to a good operating level.
Employees with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources gave 1,000 pounds in 2011 and doubled that last year.
This year's donation should last nearly one month, said Carlos Robinette, pantry and warehouse supervisor.
The bulk of the gift came in the form of canned vegetables, of which the pantry was in great need, he said.
"We go through quite a bit of product in these two months," Robinette said of the holidays.
Other smaller collections will help the center into the new year.
The Missouri Highway Patrol usually delivers a similar donation near Christmas.
And the Missouri River Regional Library's Cans for Fines program through the end of next month, also likely will accumulate to that amount.
Local education institutions, small businesses and other state offices also collect food this time of year for the not-for-profit.
"It's an ongoing process," he said. "We're very thankful."