ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Local food pantries are struggling to meet the increased demand for food following the pause in SNAP benefits. News10NBC’s Erin Mahon reported that many pantries are experiencing a surge in families seeking assistance.
At Dimitri House, Executive Director Laurie Prizel said they normally feed about 18 families a day, but this number has surged to 40 families daily over the last two weeks.
“Our freezer’s empty — almost. You know, our cupboards are getting barer by the day, so I do have to…as much as I’d love to serve the whole world and really make sure people have food, I still have to kind of limit,” Prizel said.
Prizel mentioned that they provide enough food for three days at a time to ensure they can help as many people as possible. When asked what to do once the food runs out, she directs people to other pantries.
Warren Meeks Jr., Executive Director of RF Mission, shared a similar story. “Our volume has increased, has doubled. We’re seeing close to 50 to 100 families,” Meeks said.
“As you can see from some of the shelves that are behind me that we’re running through inventory quite frequently and we’re looking for more supplies to be able to give to our community that’s in need,” Meeks added.
Both Prizel and Meeks are considering extending hours or adding weekends, depending on available food and volunteer numbers. Prizel said they are heavily relying on donations as training new volunteers is currently not feasible. For those interested in volunteering at Dimitri House, she said to check back in after the new year. Other pantries we’ve spoken to in the area are currently taking volunteers, such as Rochester Hope.
Mahon spoke with many recipients in person, who expressed anger and stress over the situation. Some were making multiple stops at different pantries to secure enough food, while others were hoping to find household items like diapers.
The pantries have varying needs, with some requiring items like laundry detergent and shampoo, while others need more food. Community members are encouraged to contact their local pantry to find out what donations are needed.
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