Rising Demand for Holiday Meals: How Local Food Needs Are Increasing This Season

On Easter Sunday, Conduit Ministries served over 386 meals in Brooklyn Square. This was a small increase from last year, but the need is growing. Danielle Pacitti, a team member, noted they’re seeing more people at the food truck lines each week. She explained that many haven’t been seen for months because shelters are turning them away as the weather warms up.

Pacitti mentioned that the hungry aren’t just those experiencing homelessness. Many everyday folks are struggling due to rising living costs. This shift in clientele highlights a broader issue affecting families and individuals alike.

Since the launch of the Conduit in a Box Food Truck Ministry, meal requests have surged. Pacitti shared that they have already served 3,849 meals since January 2025, which is part of a larger trend. In 2024, they served 13,658 meals, making a total of 17,507 meals so far this year.

This trend isn’t isolated to Conduit Ministries. Other local non-profits are facing similar demands. Cherie Rowland, executive director of the St. Susan Center soup kitchen, reported that they have provided over 10,277 meals this year, averaging more than 200 meals daily. They are on track to serve around 60,000 meals in 2025, setting a new record.

The rise in food requests reflects a growing hunger crisis as prices soar nationwide. A recent survey from the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that nearly 30% of American families reported food insecurity in 2023, a significant jump from previous years. Experts believe that economic pressures, combined with the aftermath of the pandemic, are exacerbating these challenges.

As communities respond, social media also plays a vital role. Many have taken to platforms like Twitter and Instagram to share their experiences, rally support, or volunteer for local food drives. The surge in online engagement emphasizes the collective effort to combat hunger.

In light of these developments, it’s clear that addressing food insecurity requires collaboration across various sectors. Non-profits, volunteers, and local governments must come together to find sustainable solutions that ensure no one goes hungry.

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