AUSTIN, Texas — Central Texas Food Bank relies on about 15,000 volunteers to help them distribute meals to roughly 65,000 families per week.
The demand is high during the holidays, but according to CEO & President Sari Vatske, "Hunger is a 365 day-a-year issue."
"The need for support from the community is really critical in making all this happen," said Vatske.
Vatske said they experienced some cancellations before the holiday season kicked off, but were able to make due.
However, the lack of help sometimes puts a strain on distribution, especially in areas that are more rural.
"Without volunteers, we're not able to distribute food as quickly. So that unfortunately can create waste, but most importantly it means that families go without [food]," said Vatske.
The food bank serves 21 counties and works with about 250 nonprofit organization partners, which Vatske explains helps with the need. But the worry lies on how far the food bank can stretch for those who are reliant.
"We're actually purchasing upwards of $1 million worth of food per month to supplement the additional need, and that's obviously not sustainable in the long-term," said Vatske.
Vatske added that the pandemic changed 'everything for food banking,' and the rise in costs has weighed on them.
"The pandemic has just changed the nature of the amount of donated food and the cost of doing business, while at the same time actually increasing the reliance on our services due to the cost of living," said Vatske.
The weight has also been felt by families who once weren't in need.
"It's the underemployed. It's a lot of folks that maybe once were supporting the food bank [that] are now in line," said Vatske.
Volunteers ages eight and up are always welcomed to sign-up Monday through Saturday at the food bank, according to Vatske.
"There's always a chance that there's a need for volunteers, whether it's at our warehouse, whether it's in the garden, whether it's in the kitchen or at a mobile pantry," said Vatske.
While the holidays appear to be the time of year where the need is felt the most, the support is more critical after the holiday season ends, in January and February, according to Vatske.
"We're only able to do what we do because of the trust placed in us, both by our donors and volunteers, but also the people we serve," said Vatske.