The West Texas Food Bank (WTFB) announced a rise in demand as inflation and higher grocery prices continue to put pressure on families across the region. Long lines at food distribution sites have become more frequent, with families, seniors, and children increasingly relying on the food banks for support.
“The holidays should be a time of hope and celebration,” said Libby Stephens, CEO of the WTFB. “But for the families we serve, it’s a time of stress and uncertainty. Parents are wondering how they’ll put food on the table, let alone make it special for their loved ones.”
Despite a matching campaign from the Abell-Hanger Foundation to help address some of the increased need, the food bank continues to struggle to meet demand. The organization is distributing thousands of pounds of food each week, but it remains insufficient to cover all requests.
“The stories we hear every day are heartbreaking,” Stephens said. “Mothers are skipping meals so their children can eat, seniors are rationing food because they can’t afford groceries after paying for medication, and working families are falling through the cracks. We need the community’s help now more than ever to make sure no one in West Texas goes hungry, especially during the holidays.”
According to WTFB, the rising cost of living has left many families facing difficult choices between food, rent, and other necessities. The food bank is also grappling with its own rising operational costs, including those for food and fuel.
“Inflation and grocery prices are impacting everyone, but for the families we serve, the effect is devastating. People who never thought they’d need help are now in our lines,” Stephens said. “The Abell-Hanger Foundation’s support gives us hope, but we can’t do this alone. We need everyone in West Texas to help out, especially as we head into the holiday season.”
The WTFB is calling on the community to assist through donations of funds, food, and time. A donation of $5 can provide up to 10 meals. The food bank is also in need of non-perishable items such as canned vegetables, rice, beans, and peanut butter, as well as volunteers to help with packing and distribution.
For more information on how to contribute, visit www.wtxfoodbank.org.