WESTPORT — The annual “Holiday Giving Program,” organized by the town’s Department of Human Services to help local families facing financial hardships, is underway.

The program, funded entirely by donations, provides assistance to more than 80 income-qualified Westport households with children to purchase gifts and essentials for their families, according to a DHS press release.

Financial and gift card donations are sought.

DHS officials have noticed “an increase in Westport families and individuals experiencing financial insecurity with many facing unemployment, underemployment, food insecurity, and chronic stress associated with providing for their families,” Annette D’Augelli, the department’s youth and family specialist, said in the statement.

“The holidays add an additional financial strain on those living paycheck to paycheck,” she said.

Online donations to the program can be made via the “Family to Family” tab on the department’s website.

Contributions also can be mailed to the Westport Department of Human Services at Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport, CT 06880, or dropped off in person by appointment, according to the announcement.

• Westport residents who may need help through the program can reach out confidentially to the Department of Human Services at 203-341-1050 or humansrv@westportct.gov.

• For questions or more information about the Holiday Giving Program, contact D’Augelli at adaugelli@westportct.gov or 203-341-1183.