Austin, Texas-based Central Market is offering "care" packages for college students away from home, the grocer said in its latest edition of the "Foodie" e-newsletter.

The chain's gift departments are stocking both ready-made and custom baskets full of goodies that parents and friends can send to students.

Central Market is offering customers the option of made-to-order baskets with items from its bulk department such as snack mixes, nuts and sweets, as well as ground coffees and teas.

Baskets are specially wrapped in a cardboard box with the Central Market logo. "All smart students know CM = TLC," said the Heb-owned gourmet grocer.

Central Market said it will ship baskets directly to college students, "near or far."