One person’s surplus is another’s necessity, and St. Mary’s Food Bank is hoping that once again the Valley’s overflowing neighborhood citrus trees can be turned into a bountiful harvest for those in need this winter.

    Food Bank volunteers will pick any leftover or unneeded oranges and grapefruits for needy families for a tax-deductible donation of $10 a tree, used to cover the costs of the materials used in the program.

    Requests are now being accepted at the Food Bank’s special “Citrus Hotline” at 602-343-5658. Volunteer teams will pick trees beginning January 4 and will continue through March 31, trying to reach as many homes as possible. Volunteers also are needed. Call the hotline for details.