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Food Pantries In National and Local News

December 1, 2025 News

“Food banks and pantries have been experiencing historic demand since SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits halted on Nov. 1 for many Americans due to the federal government shutdown.” News reports claim that there are massive increases in the number of people coming to food pantries for assistance. Higher prices at the grocery store are also causing more stress for food pantries and their clients. The price of food increased by 2.9% from July 2024 to July 2025, according to the USDA. Without the help of the food pantry, people must make a choice between paying rent and having food on the table.

“Blue Ridge has experienced an 16% increase in the amount of people served in the past year,” Ratzlaff said. “The demand is currently 45% higher than in the height of the pandemic.”

At our own Buck Mountain Food Pantry, we are having to buy more food. Two months ago, we were serving between 40 and 60 families. On November 12 it really hit home for us when we had 86 families.

How can you help?

  • Monetary donations: Financial donations provide the most flexibility, allowing pantries to purchase the specific items they need most.
  • Food donations: Donate non-perishable food items.
  • Organize a drive: Host a fundraising event like a bake sale or chili cook-off, or organize a team challenge to collect donations from friends and coworkers.
  • Donate agricultural products: Farmers can donate agricultural products to food banks and may be eligible for a state tax credit.

As the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank states: “Everyone should have enough to eat.” Many people in our community have expressed concern and want to help. Many of our clients are elderly, are on a fixed income, or cannot work, or work several jobs and cannot make ends meet. Please join us in meeting their basic food needs during this critical time.

—Ellen Welch

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