A group of Conejo Valley mothers have formed "No Hunger At Home," a charitable group comprising moms who collect food from area residents for distribution among hungry families throughout Southern California.

Longtime area residents and No Hunger founders Debbie Yeager and Vie Caswell said the recent explosion in food prices has created a shortage for those in need.

"While many in this area worry about not being able to take a vacation or eat out as often as they once did, thousands of families are barely able to subsist," Yeager said.

"Being a mom for many of us is synonymous with being the primary caregiver, and we've united to help care for the community at large," she said.

"No Hunger At Home is inviting all moms to open their hearts and join us in our quest to end hunger," said Caswell. "I have experienced hunger and loss in my life, and now it is time to give back."

No Hunger is seeking canned goods and nonperishable items as well as diapers, baby formula and toiletry items.

Volunteers are needed to help retrieve items left on doorsteps in Camarillo, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oak Park, Agoura Hills and Calabasas.

Deliveries will be made to local missions, families experiencing hard times and the Food Bank of Southern California, which distributes food to abused children, food pantries, shelters and social service agencies.

For more information or to volunteer, call (818) 9707785 or (805) 777-1681 or e-mail nohunger@aol.com.