PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – For food banks in South Florida and across the country right now, supply chain issues, rising fuel prices and inflation are making it difficult for them to feed people in need.
At a time when demand is nearing pandemic-era levels, the budget for food and other necessities are staying the same while the costs are increasing.
Local 10 News’ Christina Vazquez visited Feeding South Florida on Tuesday as many workers were seen loading up boxes of food for people in need.
“The economic crisis really did a number on our families,” said Feeding South Florida President/ CEO Paco Vélez. “The dollars or their benefits aren’t stretching as far as they used to.”
As inflation continues to hit fixed incomes hard, Vélez told Local 10 News that many are relying on food banks because of the dollar not increasing.
“Instead of having a need toward end of the month they are need in middle because they money isn’t stretching, their food stamps are not stretching so they are coming to us a lot more frequently,” said Velez.
Fron rising prices from food to fuel, resources for food banks like Feeding South Florida are being strained as the cost of living continues to rise.
“Our costs go up as well, just like our families, price of diesel $5.00 a gallon,” said Velez. “Rent here is about to go up over 50 percent.”
Velez says that monetary donations are needed as the cost to keep shelves stocked and the families who depend on them fed increase along with demand.
“Especially in the new year as we help put food on the table for families this holiday season, we hope South Florida continues to support us,” he said.
Feeding South Florida is also looking for volunteers. If you would like to sign up, click here.