Ongoing

Feed the Hungry | COUNTYWIDE– Bring non-perishable food to one of the following locations. Food will then be donated to the Food Bank for Monterey County. Salinas Valley Center for Change, 931 E. Market St., Salinas. Democratic Headquarters, 60 Bonifacio Plaza, Monterey. 578-0524.

Teddy Bear Drive | COUNTYWIDE– The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office is collecting newly purchased teddy bears and stuffed animals to donate to kids who might otherwise not receive a gift during the holidays, or who need comfort during a traumatic event. Donate teddy bears through Dec. 31: Coastal Station, 1200 Aguajito Road, Room 002, Monterey. 647-7702. Castroville Field Office, 10680 Merritt St., Castroville. 759-6675, Central Station, 1414 Natividad Road, Salinas. 759-6675

Food for Fines | MONTEREY|PACIFIC GROVE– The Monterey Public Library and Pacific Grove Public Library accept donations of unopened, non-perishable food in lieu of payment for overdue fines on library materials through Jan. 3. All donations given to the Food Bank for Monterey County. Monterey Public Library, 625 Pacific St., Monterey and Pacific Grove Public Library, 550 Central Ave., Pacific Grove. 648-5760 or 646-5602.

A Few Outstanding Women | COUNTYWIDE– Each year the Commission on the Status of Women honors women who have significantly improved the quality of life for others. Help the commission find these unsung heroes by nominating someone in the community. See website for qualifications and to download the nomination form, which is due at 5pm, on Jan. 9. www.co.monterey.ca.us/csw

Thursday 12|18

Talking Trash | GONZALES– The Salinas Valley Solid Waste Authority discusses waste diversion and the closure of self-hauling at Crazy Horse Landfill. 6pm. City Council Chambers, 117 Fourth St., Gonzales. Free. 775-3000.

Friday 12|19

Teen Talent Show | SALINAS– The Youth Commission invites teens willing to jump on stage to sing a jingle, play an instrument or bust a move. The commission will also be accepting donations of cans and other nonperishable goods for local food pantries. 7pm. Sherwood Hall, 940 N. Main St., Salinas. Free. 758-7476.