Montgomery County Food Bank needs climb in 2022; holiday drive runs Nov. 1-Dec. 1

Kristine Marlow, the president and CEO of Montgomery County Food Bank, said the organization has seen demand as high as it was during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic this year. As a result, the organization is stepping up its annual food drive and search for volunteers to help respond to demand for 1 million meals a month.

"During the holidays, expenses rise, especially on food costs. So, for those who are stretching already limited resources among rising inflation, the holiday season can be a painful reminder of their difficult situation," Marlow said. "We anticipate the need for food assistance to rise during the holidays, and we will stand committed to serving those in need."

In October, Marlow said the food pantry was serving about the same number of people it was serving during the peak of COVID-19 shutdowns in 2020.

"This increase in demand coupled with rising costs of food and supply chain issues has put a strain on our resources. We are seeing a greater demand with decreased supply of food coming in," she said.

This also translates to more meals prepared each month by the organization.

Marlow said in 2021 the food bank served an average of 830,000 meals per month. This year, it serves about 1 million per month.

The organization's annual Stock The Sleigh holiday food and funds drive began Nov. 1 and will run through Dec. 1, ending with a festive drop-off event on Dec. 2 at the food bank location in Conroe.

"Our goal is to raise 1 million meals this holiday season," Marlow said.

Each dollar that is donated provides up to five meals, she said, due to the organization's buying power. Monetary donations, food donations and volunteers are needed, she said.

"Just as critical is our volunteer force. We need over 650 volunteers a month to help keep up with demand," she said.

Montgomery County Food Bank

1 Food for Life Way, Conroe

936-271-8800

www.mcfoodbank.org