The drive is being run to alleviate burdens on the Maryland Food Bank, which has had to meet continuously rising demand for food over the past few years.  Its network of soup kitchens and shelters have increased distribution from 11 million pounds of food in 2008 to 26 million pounds in 2012, and donations are especially in need right now.

To incentivize this event and get more food to people this holiday season, East Coast Airsoft is hosting a contest for airsoft teams.  The team that donates the most food will win a special mystery prize, to be announced at the end of the collection.  All a team member needs to do is specify which team they would like their food donation to count towards.

The East Coast Airsoft food drive is the perfect way for individuals to help others in their community.  The drive is open to anyone who wishes to donate, not just airsoft players.  'We want to make our store available as a hub for food donations,' said marketing director Justin Kander.  'The contest is an additional way to increase awareness and donations, as well as give something back to the customers who support us every day.'  The company's goal is to collect 500 food items.

East Coast Airsoft has been selling airsoft guns online since 2007, and recently opened a brick-and-mortar facility on May 1, 2012.  The business is located at 1318 E. Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21014.  All non-perishable food donations are welcome.  For a complete list of details and to see what food items are most in need, visit http://www.eastcoastairsoft.com/east-coast-food-drive-n-18.html.