PENNSYLVANIA, USA — Food banks across central Pennsylvania are seeing levels of demand unlike anything before.
According to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, demand is 30% higher than in 2022 and above levels seen during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We're actually above where we were in 2021, and that really has surprised us to a great degree," said Joe Arthur, the CEO for the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. "I think it’s surprising across the country that the level of need is as high as it is."
The COVID-19 pandemic, along with inflation and a scaleback of programs such as SNAP and the child tax credit, has caused the need for food banks to grow to unprecedented levels.
The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank says families are facing an average of $500 higher costs per month than two years ago. It's an increase that's making it challenging for families to put food on the table.
"We always expected the pandemic aftermath to last a few years, but no one really expected inflation and we’ve had that for two years," said Arthur. "[An increased cost of] 500 dollars a month, 6,000 dollars a year for the average family right here in central Pennsylvania, it’s just a little too much to bear."
To keep up with the increased demand, food banks have to rely more heavily on their communities for support.
"We’re asking more of them now than ever before," said Arthur. "The fact that they are staying with us, making sure we have enough resources, enough dollars, enough food, enough volunteer hours is truly amazing."
It's an extra level of help they will continue to need.
"We’re in [the] holiday season. For year-end giving please consider the food bank," said Arthur. "We’re going to need you not just for the holidays but for months and months to come."
However, they are determined with more hard work and continued support, they will continue serving everyone who needs it.
"If you need help, please reach out. Know that we’re working every day to make sure they have enough food and that we can support everything that you need," said Arthur. "Please do not hesitate. We work hard every day to make sure that there is enough food. You can count on us."
More information on how to help or if you require help can be found on the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank's website.
