CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- Melody's Manna, a nonprofit group that distributes food, clothing and household goods to those in need in the Cross Lanes and Nitro areas, will host a "Very Merry Giveaway" event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday in Tabernacle of Praise church at 5230 Big Tyler Road in Cross Lanes.

Saturday's event is open to any individual in need, and involves bread, pastry, clothing and other items that will be given away free of charge.

Robert and Debbie Mullins of Cross Lanes established Melody's Manna, named in honor of a daughter, three years ago, after operating a food program for the homeless in Charlotte, N.C., before moving back to West Virginia in 2008, and deciding to continue their outreach efforts here.

The Mountaineer Food Bank will provide most of the non-perishable food to be given away Saturday. Melody's Manna, a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, also accepts donations of food and clothing from the public for future distribution. To donate, contact Garret Listo at 513-967-3007 or send email to garretlis...@yahoo.com.

For the past 15 weeks, Melody's Manna has been partnering with a University of Charleston class on public relations and fundraising campaigns to raise awareness about the organization while providing hands-on experience for UC communications students.