Inflation Increasing Number of People Using Local Food Banks

As inflation worsens across the nation and here at home, more people are turning to food banks and other human services organizations for help.

Kaylin Bettinger, executive director of Leavenworth-based Upper Valley Mend, says her not-for-profit has seen a 35 percent increase in the number of people seeking assistance since the start of the year.

"With the cost of gas and the cost of groceries going up, we're seeing more need in food and more need in fuel assistance for folks," explained Bettinger.

Bettinger added that most of the individuals who seek assistance are employed but simply cannot afford to pay for all of their monthly expenses.

"Anecdotally, I would say that most of the folks we see are either employed or retired. So it's folks who just need a little extra boost," detailed Bettinger.

Other outfits that provide food assistance within the region, such as the Salvation Army, are also experiencing a marked increase in the number of people they're serving.

Those who continue to be less financially challenged through the current period of inflation can always donate food, household goods and cash to help those in need.