Prior to their Wednesday walk on Bainbridge Island last Wednesday, members of the Solemates walking group dropped off bags of food to be donated to the Mercer Island Food Pantry.

The group has been walking around Mercer Island and the area for the last 13 years. They decided this spring to donate food, with each walker bringing 13 items to be given to the food pantry.

Lloyd Gilman and Bob Still, whose wives are walkers, filled the back of both of their SUVs with bags to be donated.

Cheryl Manriquez, the family support and employment coordinator for Mercer Island Youth and Family Services, said Solemates estimated bringing in 47 bags of food.

Manriquez said the food pantry is in need of rice products and cereal for families in need.

Donations to the food pantry can be made at the MIYFS office in Luther Burbank Park, at Banner Bank on 78th Avenue S.E., the Community Center, Albertsons at 2755 77th Ave. S.E., or the Mercer Island Thrift Store at 7710 S.E. 34th Street.