COVINGTON, Ky. — Food pantries in northern Kentucky are facing a rising demand for help, but the donations they depend on are declining. This mismatch is forcing them to rethink their budgets.
At Be Concerned Food Pantry, the shelves for their Choice Pantry program are stocked, but their supply of donated food is running low. Andy Brunsman, the executive director, explains, “We have increased our in-kind budget threefold. If donations don’t come in, we have to buy the food ourselves, which pushes our budget for 2025 to $3.1 million.”
Community donations play a crucial role in helping pantries and shelters provide emergency groceries to those in need. However, as food production decreases, fewer companies are able to donate. Brunsman points out that businesses aim to avoid loss by minimizing overproduction. “When we see that food supply decline, we face tough choices at the pantry,” he says.
According to a recent report from Feeding America, food banks are now paying about 30% more for food compared to last year. Prices have jumped from $0.59 to $0.77 per pound in 2023 due to the decrease in donations. This situation is compounded by inflation over the last two years, affecting staples like eggs significantly. Brunsman noted, “We buy our eggs wholesale from a Cincinnati supplier. Last week, they cost us $6.50 per dozen; this week, it’s up to $7.”
Despite these challenges, Be Concerned remains dedicated to supporting families in need. “We’re committed to helping as many people as we can,” Brunsman confirms. “While we can’t predict exactly how much food we’ll have, we will continue our food assistance programs for as long as we are needed.”
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