ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Many people found themselves struggling for the first time because of the pandemic, and because of that, food banks saw an increase in demand for food services.

Compared to 2019, MANNA food bank reported a 77% increase in the number of people needing help because due to struggles brought on by the coronavirus. Since March, they’ve distributed 17 million pounds of food to families in need. MANNA also has the National Guard working in its warehouse to help package and prepare food for distribution.

“It’s amazing the amount of need that is not only in Western North Carolina but across our state,” Distribution Manager Kevin Davis says. 

A study from N.C. State reported people who weren’t concerned before the COVID-19 crisis, became increasingly insecure about how they were going to afford food.

“Without that food assistance, then they would be in some serious trouble, as far as getting the food needed just to survive,” Davis says.

With cold, winter months and the pandemic still looming, Davis said his team is prepared to work as much as necessary to provide as much help as possible.