Police are investigating after a food bank east of Ottawa was broken into overnight.

The thieves made off with Christmas hampers filled with food, turkeys and toys when they broke the door to the food bank in Riceville, Ont. The hampers were supposed to be delivered to 20 of the community's neediest families.

Volunteers spent most of the day trying to replace the stolen items. However, the food bank is still appealing for donations.

Anyone wishing to make a donation can drop them off at 740 Station St. in Plantagenet, located about 64 kilometres east of Ottawa.