The pandemic is forcing changes to the annual Hood River County Christmas Project to provide assistance with food and children’s gifts for families in need.  Registrations will be taken online at hoodrivercountychristmasproject.com from November 1 to December 7 from Hood River County families that currently meet State of Oregon low income eligibility standards.  All of the 470 families who participated last year will be contacted by phone to re-register them in so desired.  Individuals and families experiencing homelessness are encouraged to register.  Instead of distributing food boxes in person, all families will be able to choose a food gift card from one of four local grocery stores and a toy gift card for each child from two local stores and an on-line toy company.  The Christmas Project will be coordinating with Hood River Shelter Services and FISH this year to register and deliver their gift cards.   For more information, and to donate or volunteer to help, go to hoodrivercountychristmasproject.com.