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Collecting canned goods and turkeys for needy families is the perfect way to honor a good friend, says Edith Chatman of Upper Marlboro. Chatman, a member of the Sisters 4 Sisters Network, was one of several women who participated in a recent food drive launched by network founder Peggy Morris.

"This is how Peggy celebrates her birthday," said Chatman, a member for about three years. "I've supported her in the past by taking the cans to her home."

Because of increased community support, however, this year's food collection took place Nov. 7 at the Overdue Recognition Art Gallery in Bowie. Area residents donated about 15 boxes of canned food and dry goods, and another local benefactor has pledged 100 boxes and 100 turkeys.

The food will go to the Shepherd's Cove Shelter in Capitol Heights; the Bea Gaddy Family Center in Baltimore, which assists homeless women and children; and the Food2Feed Drive organized by WHUR radio station.

Morris, who lives in Lanham, started the drive 10 years ago in memory of an act of kindness shown to her family when she was a child.

"My dad was laid off, and my English teacher came to my home with a basket and a turkey," she said.

Morris then decided she would make a difference for someone else when she grew up, and began her efforts by asking friends to provide canned goods for her birthday in November instead of gifts. She delivered the food to the shelters herself. Eventually she received help from a cousin, and then the members of the Sisters 4 Sisters Network, an organization she created in 2002.

"The drive started with four baskets, and last year we gave 25 baskets," Morris said. "We have a need in our community, and I'm happy to help." All the food collected this year will be divided among the two shelters and the radio station's food drive.

This year's drive held special meaning, she said, because the teacher who served as her inspiration will be in the area this month for a family celebration. Morris, who located her former teacher via Facebook, plans to attend the event with a former classmate.

"My classmate doesn't know he'll be in town, so she'll be surprised," Morris said. "This is my season. I'm about enjoying life and sharing good times with others."

Becoming a member of the network has inspired Chatman to pursue her dream of becoming a caterer.

"The organization puts people in your path to help you reach your goals," she said. "We support each other."

Member Alice Holt of Suitland wants to launch an organization to assist homeless children. Through the network, Holt has met professionals who will show her how to apply for her nonprofit status and write grants.

"I'm connecting with women who are willing to help the least of God's children," she said. "Many kids don't have what they need to succeed."

Sisters 4 Sisters Network

How it makes a difference: This organization sponsors events to assist women entrepreneurs and support the community. For information, visit www.facebook.com/sisters4sistersnetwork