Western Mass food bank seeing massive uptick in families in need, how you can help

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) – The level of food insecurity is rising locally and has now surpassed the record numbers we saw during the height of the pandemic.

We heard from the Food Bank of Western Mass about why the need for food is so great, and what we can do about it, right here in our own backyard.

The mission of the food bank is simple — working to end hunger in here in western Massachusetts. But, like many things, that’s easier said than done, especially now when they’re helping an unprecedent number of families in need.

“We really want to see the food bank go to being a source for people when they are experiencing an emergency or crisis. And right now, what we’re seeing is that too many people are utilizing the food bank to just get by,” Jillian Morgan told us.

The Food Bank of Western Mass sees an average of 119,000 people every month seeking food. That’s a 21% increase year over year, and that number is only growing.

“Our most recent data shows that we had 141,000 people visiting our member food pantries, meal sites and our direct distribution programs,” she explained.

The programs include their mobile food bank as well as the more than 190 partner food pantries, meal sites and shelters, all giving out food. And for the vast majority on the receiving end, this is all because the cost of living, especially here in Massachusetts, has gone through the roof — assuming you can afford one.

“A lot of people sacrifice their food budgets before sacrificing other expenses. So, you have to pay rent, you have to pay to heat your home so then often times people’s food ends up getting stretched or they have to take away from it.”

That’s why Western Mass News is teaming up with WMAS and Margolis Orthodontics to collect non-perishable foods for the Food Bank of Western Mass.

You can drop them off at our Liberty Street studio in Springfield from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday from now until February 14th.

All your donations will stay local and towards helping people, right here in western Mass.

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