Woodland launches holiday food drive:

Gurnee-based Woodland Elementary District 50 has started a holiday food drive to help feed needy families within school boundaries through Wednesday, Dec. 12. Jewel-Osco will join Woodland in the effort and host a collection site at its Gurnee store at 6509 W. Grand Ave. "This event has become part of a district tradition for the last 15 years," Superintendent Joy Swoboda said. "We are fortunate to have strong, collaborative partnerships with our local businesses in this community that have supported the district's efforts." District 50 also is collecting new hats and mittens and new or gently used books. Parents may send their donations to school with their child or drop them off at the Woodland Educational Support Center, 1105 N. Hunt Club Road, Gurnee. For information, call (847) 596-5600.