Towns and local religious organizations in southeastern Connecticut are ramping up efforts to get groceries and other essential items to residents during the COVID-19 outbreak.

According to a news release, Waterford is partnering with the Interfaith Food Locker to give free groceries to residents impacted by coronavirus on Friday, March 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its office at the Youth and Family Services office, 200 Boston Post Road.

"It will be a drive-thru format, residents will just need to open their trunks and staff will place items in the car," the release reads. "Groceries will include fresh food and non-perishable food items. This will be the first round of our 'Grab and Go' free food program for those impacted by COVID-19."

The grocery giveaway is open to all, Youth Services Program Coordinator Joseph Trelli wrote in an email. "While we have a robust social services application process, it requires a person-to-person interview. Given the circumstances, that isn't possible right now," he wrote. "We also feel that, based on the gravity of the situation, attempting to determine eligibility simply flies in the face of what Youth and Family Services is all about, and that's empathy. We understand the struggle, the anxiety and uncertainty that folks are feeling right now, and it's in everyone's best interest that we waive the application process."

Food donations being accepted at the Youth and Family Services office but, since the building is closed to the public, residents are encouraged to call ahead, at (860) 444-5848 to arrange donations.

A food drive, set up by First Selectman Rob Brule, also is taking place at Town Hall from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 21.

Waterford's Interfaith Food Locker has been running for more than 15 years. Every month, it serves 40 to 50 clients that need help, according to Trelli.

According to a news release from the Shoreline Church in Old Lyme, area pastors and local leaders "are offering to pick up and deliver groceries, prescriptions and other essential items to area residents who are at risk of contracting coronavirus, or who are afraid to go out in public to get the things they need" at no charge for the services but with reimbursement for items provided.

To use this service or volunteer to assist with the initiative, residents in Chester, Deep River, Essex, Old Lyme, Lyme, East Lyme, South Lyme, Old Saybrook, Clinton, Westbrook, Niantic, Waterford, New London, Salem and Montville should email SLCwillhelp@gmail.com or call (860) 304-9853.

In Lyme, the town's Senior Center issued a statement saying those who normal eat lunch at the center can order food to go through the Estuary Center in Old Saybrook by calling (860) 388-1611, ext. 216, before 11 a.m. on the Monday before the week. People who use the service should pick up food curbside at the senior center on Tuesdays between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. People receive five frozen meals per reservation.