The annual Stuff the Mayflower charity food drive got underway Friday at the West Park Shopping Center in Mansfield and Buehler's Fresh Food Market in Ashland.

Tara Beare, owner of Tara's Floral Expression and event organizer, said the food drive allows area residents the opportunity to help those less fortunate during the upcoming holiday season. Beare said non-perishable food items and personal hygiene products are being collected for the Mansfield and Ashland Salvation Army locations.

Beare said people who donated items received a rose courtesy of her floral shop. Beare said she started the food drive six years ago with the mission of helping those in need. 

Items will be collected again on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.