RALEIGH, N.C. — Food charities across our state face challenges providing meals to those in need, especially over the holidays.
What You Need To Know
Food charities across our state face challenges providing meals to those in need, especially over the holidays
Across our state, more than one million people face hunger, according to Feeding America. Out of that number, more than 394,000 are children
In October, grocery prices were 12.4% higher than a year ago, according to the Labor Department
With inflation impacting families daily, local nonprofits say they need help.
Lesley White was one of many volunteers who stuffed bags to feed families who depend on charities for their holiday meals.
“These are staples that can make up to eight meals for seniors so you get tortillas, and they include a recipe,” White said.
Charities across the state rely on donations as access to food becomes even more scarce for many families.
“I think for families facing the holidays. It’s a hard thing when you see commercials and all the celebrations that are centered upon food and what do you have to put on your table,” White said.
Across our state, more than one million people face hunger, according to Feeding America. Out of that number, more than 394,000 are children.
Senior Director of Food Recovery and Distribution Joe Johnson with the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle in Raleigh says his organization normally gives away nine million pounds of food each year.
Rising grocery costs increases that number by an extra one million a year.
“Luckily we’ve got resources to compensate for that, but because of inflation, gas prices, we’re paying about 63% more than we did last year, that’s really eating into our food budget,” Johnson explained.
Normally, the food inside the warehouse is donated. The charity had to purchase it this time since giving is down.
“I know that food banks get a lot of donations around the holidays and that’s a wonderful thing, but then it makes me wonder what happens in February and in May and in July,” White said.
In October, grocery prices were 12.4% higher than a year ago. That’s according to the Labor Department.
To find out how to donate to the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, click here.