Food bank continues to see record demand while donations needed more than ever

People you would never expect are turning to the food bank. That is according to Helen Donovan, chair of the board for Northumberland Fare Share. Since January, 250 new families started using its services. That is nearly five times more than the same period last year. Inflation is crippling. Gas prices, housing costs, and living expenses are through the roof. For some, there is little money left to buy food. More young people with families are seeking help. That is on top of the growing number of seniors and others who regularly drop in. The food bank is spending more than $50,000 a month buying food, up from the $40,000 it budgeted. Donations are down because people are struggling to buy groceries and have reduced the number of donations at the stores. For the first time in the history of the food bank, it was short peanut butter. If you don’t know, that is a staple for them. You will want to hear all the details for yourself.