CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A newly released report shows more families are struggling with food insecurity nationwide. 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service found 17 million households struggled to put food on the table in 2022. This was significantly higher than the nearly 14 million data for 2021. 

What You Need To Know

  •  Newly released data shows food insecurity is on the rise 

  •  The Economic Research Service found millions of households struggled with food insecurity in 2022, which was significantly higher compared to 2021

  •  A local food pantry service says food needs are at an all-time high 

But this data comes at no surprise to North Carolina organizations helping to feed their neighbors. 

Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays is a network of emergency food pantries and the primary Meals on Wheels program for Mecklenburg County. 

The organization says food insecurity is at an all-time high. 

Last year, Loaves & Fishes provided groceries to 106,000 people in Mecklenburg County.

It has already served 106,000 people already in 2023, and there's still two remaining months left. 

The Harvest Center West Campus pantry is run by volunteers from Mount Carmel Baptist Church. 

Volunteer Walter Dewalt says he enjoys helping families access the food they need for themselves and loved ones. 

"We enjoy doing what we do," Dewalt said. "We try to make sure people get the items they need. We feel good about doing our part. Food insecurity has been around for a long time, and it's not getting any better, it's going to get worse. We need more people to get involved with contributing to Loaves & Fishes. We are here for a reason, we're supposed to feed the hungry. Think about those who are really struggling."

Arineka Williams just used the Loaves & Fishes pantry for the first time. 

She says the cost of food has been so high it's no longer affordable. 

Williams expressed gratitude for a pantry helping her to feed her family. 

"It's definitely plenty to choose from and different brands," Williams said. "I have a family of five. It will stretch two weeks."

Loaves & Fishes is in need of additional volunteers and donations throughout this holiday season. 

Loaves & Fishes says food drives have been down, and it's having to purchase more food than ever before.

Staff say so far this year, they've spent over $780,000 on food purchases.