As we approach Memorial Day, record costs at the grocery store may seem like a hit. Volunteers at a local food bank say more and more people need their help, and they hope that need will only grow.
SEATTLE — Rising grocery store costs not only affect families who buy food there, but it also affects local food banks, which bear the costs and face even greater demand for food.
Deliveries flew out the door of the Rainier Valley Food Bank on Saturday, as volunteer drivers took cover to pick up grocery bags for those in need.
“I love being surrounded by other people who are helping, because I was raised like that,” said Lawrence Odom, a longtime volunteer at the food bank.
Lawrence said running at the food bank is for the soul. He said that in difficult times, acts of service move him forward.
“Most of the time, I like to be around other people and watch other people do it intelligently and looking to succeed in this world, because the world is no longer what it used to be,” Lawrence said.
For many, times are more complicated economically.
“The need has been incredible,” said Otis Pimpleton, a volunteer.
Pimpleton said that even before COVID, the need was increasing.
“Everyone wants food now, and you know, we’re busy trying to provide it,” Otis said. “Even before COVID and all that, the need was expanding every year. “
Otis said emerging economies have also weighed on people’s budgets.
The food bank cited the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which recently reported a 9 to 16 percent increase in the cost of food. Food bank staff say it affects everyone at all income levels and has caused a spike in demand for the Rainier Valley Food Bank.
“Inflation plays a role,” Otis said.
“One of the things that infuriates is the inflation rate, but also when the stimulus checks ran out, other people who might pass by without going to the food bank found out they had to go to the food bank,” Hatcher said. Mays, Managing Director of the Rainier Valley Food Bank.
The food bank reports a year-over-year increase in visitor visits in 2022. During the elegant reopening of “in-person shopping,” where consumers buy their own items, another 180 people appeared, with only 20 outgoing invitations.
The food bank estimates that 500 to 600 more people may show up on the day when “shopping days” reopen completely.
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“We see our service as a service that is helping to stabilize a monthly budget, that you can use the food bank as a protective valve for your monthly expenses. “Gloria. Otis said the food bank has also been artistic in handling emerging foods. expenses in your own budget.
“There are a lot of things I like to order at astronomical prices. We still have a lot of smart food here, but we have to be selective when we buy it, buy it when it’s in season and things like that. “Otis said.
“We went from a small position to this beautiful big position,” Gloria said. “It’s expensive and we need to make additional innovations here, so we can expand our programming. “
Gloria hopes to expand it in the future.
Washington’s food banks are experiencing increased demand as families struggle to afford higher grocery costs.
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“We’re definitely looking to see if netpaintings will continue our expansion here,” Gloria said. is to have discovered this position and how hopeful we hope netpaintings will continue for us. “
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The food bank also had loose showers on Saturday for those in need.
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