During troubled economic times, many here in Austin are struggling to feed their families.
One national organization is helping local residents put food on the table -- and cut grocery bills in half.
At Northwest Hills United Methodist Church -- the Angel Food Ministries program holds a distribution day one Saturday a month.
The non-profit organization buys meat, frozen vegetables, fresh fruit and even desserts from major food suppliers at wholesale. The food is then distributed through local churches.
At the beginning of each month, participants can place an order for boxes containing different foods or meals -- and they can order as many boxes as they want.
Each one costs between 18 to 30 dollars.
Basically it's quality food at a discount price, said Angel Food Coordinator Krista Payne. I do think it's great for the economy right now because people are always trying to find ways to save money.
And the Angel Food program is open to anyone. Everyone from students to seniors are lining up to take part.
People who have nothing have programs, people who can afford things don't need them, it's the middle that needs a little help, said volunteer Becky Travelsted. And this is a way to help and not take their pride away too, 'cause you pay.
At Northwest Methodist, about 100 families take advantage of the Angel Food program every month.
It's been a huge success at other area churches as well -- coordinators say the demand for fresh and frozen inexpensive food is greater than ever before for those struggling to make ends meet across Central Texas.
More than a dozen churches in Central Texas offer the Angel Food Ministries program.
