HUNTSVILLE, Ala. —
Even before the pandemic, more than 37 million people struggled with hunger in the United States.
Now, the USDA estimates one in five households will be “food insecure” because of COVID-19.
We don’t know when this pandemic will end. For many, that means they don’t know when they can go back to work and get groceries back on their tables. Food Bank of North Alabama is stepping in to help in a big way.
The Food Bank of North Alabama gave away boxes of fresh produce to those in need at a "Mobile Pantry" event Thursday afternoon at Straight to Ale Brewery in Huntsville.
We spoke with Shirley Schofield, the Executive Director of Food Bank of North Alabama. She says, “There are a lot of businesses that aren’t full-time yet. So, we’re really trying to target those people who aren’t quite up to speed fully. They might have a few hours that they’re working, but not a full 40 a week.”
The Food Bank of North Alabama has partnered with Publix to give away 10,000 pounds of food to those in need-- free of charge. Everything from cucumbers to oranges and cabbage; they say eating healthy during this time can make all the difference.
Schofield adds, “Seventy percent of the people who need food assistance are hypertensive. And another 30 percent have diabetes. So, we always try to make sure we have at least some healthy products. But, nothing can compare to fresh produce.”
Volunteers are masked and gloved while passing out food and our neighbors are keeping 6 feet apart at each station. Organizers say they're trying to make sure everyone gets as much as they need for their households.
We talked with Deidra Bigham, a volunteer at the event. She says, “Some people still don’t know when they’re going back to work and get that paycheck and be able to have the freedom to go to the grocery store and buy whatever their family needs.”
And more people than ever are in need of support.
Bigham adds, “It’s very overwhelming the amount of gratitude and everyone just being so gracious and also, I think a little shy. Because we say ‘how many would you like?” and they’re afraid to ask what they truly need. So, we’re just trying to encourage them and say ‘Hey, if you need more, we’ll give you whatever you need to take care of yourself and your family.'”
The Food Bank of North Alabama tells our reporter they have limited opportunities for volunteers now. They say the best way you can help is with monetary donations. That way you can help them continue to feed those in the Valley who’re in need.
For more on how to give, click here.
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