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Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays Sees 113% Increase in Neighbors Needing Help This Summer
After the tsunami of food insecurity that we witnessed in 2020, our numbers had stabilized over the last year, even reaching pre-pandemic levels. This summer, that has all changed. Taking a look at our June service numbers (see chart below) shows a significant increase in visits to our pantries – a 15% increase in one month – from May to June. Dig a little deeper and the numbers are even more startling – a whopping 113% increase this June compared to June 2021!
These numbers show that families are feeling the impacts of inflation – rising gas prices, the soaring costs of rent and housing and of course the jump in grocery prices.
We are all feeling the pinch. The increase in food prices is impacting our organization in several ways. We rely on the generosity of volunteers and donors who can donate food or funds to keep our shelves filled. Right now, food donations are down as everyone is finding it a bit harder to buy those extra cans of food. Meanwhile, we are purchasing more food than usual, at higher prices, in order to meet the growing demand.
Our mission at Loaves & Fishes/Friendship Trays is to nourish our neighbors with food and compassion. We are here to help make sure that everyone has access to nutritious food without having to choose between paying the rent or putting groceries on their table.
You can help!
