DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) – Local food pantries are facing an increasing demand, despite a drop in population in the areas they serve.
Last week, the River Bend Food Bank hit a new record by serving 425 individuals in just four hours, according to Chris Ford, the organization’s Executive Director and CEO.
Ford noted that the number of people seeking assistance has steadily risen over the past two years. “There’s no doubt that the need is increasing out there,” he said, pointing out that rising food prices are a significant factor.
As Ford explained, “A plethora of economic indicators have put people in very tough positions.” This struggle is evident at the Salvation Army, where Kelle Larned, the programs and operations director, reported that the number of households served has nearly tripled in the last six months. Just last Wednesday, 16 new households visited their food pantry.
High food costs are a primary reason for the surge in demand. “They are needing food in, and it’s because the food cost is so high,” Larned commented.
Due to skyrocketing prices, River Bend Food Bank stopped providing eggs six months ago. The Salvation Army no longer offers eggs or fresh produce for the same reason. “I would love to have those things; it’s just we don’t have the budget for it,” Larned explained.
Currently, they do provide frozen meat, but that too may be cut if prices continue to soar. “A majority of our people, if not all of them, come in for the meat because it’s so expensive in the stores,” Larned said.
If food prices keep climbing, the Salvation Army may need to reduce the number of pantries they operate each month or even halt their services. “Right now, we’re taking it week by week to see if we need to cut back,” she said.
