NAPLES, Fla. — The Salvation Army in Naples is facing a huge rise in requests for food. Over the last two months, the need has surged by 175%.
Captain William Conley, a local Salvation Army officer, has seen the impact firsthand. He pointed out that the food shelves are emptier than usual. “A lot of food that we typically have is just not here,” he said.
The statistics are alarming. In May, the organization handed out 20,000 pounds of food, helping around 400 families. Just last month, that number climbed to 30,000 pounds, serving about 600 families. Yet, even with this increase, they still struggled to meet the demand. “We still didn’t have enough to provide for the people who were coming,” Conley added.
The faces behind the requests for help are changing too. More people who typically wouldn’t need assistance are now asking for support. “These are first responders, healthcare workers, and others usually considered middle-class,” Conley explained.
Max Dalessandro, a 14-year-old volunteer, shared his experiences. He sees the gratitude from those receiving help. “Every time I help someone, they’re always respectful and really thankful,” he said. He hopes his peers will join in and give back to the community.
This rise in need is part of a broader trend. According to a recent survey from Feeding America, about 1 in 8 people in the U.S. faced food insecurity in 2021. That number has likely risen as inflation and rising living costs affect more families.
Communities everywhere are banding together to fight food insecurity. In Naples, the Salvation Army is encouraging more food donations and volunteers to meet the growing need. Local support can make a difference, especially when many families are feeling the strain.
For more information on the need for food assistance, you can visit Feeding America.
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