COLUMBUS, Ohio — At the Worthington Resource Pantry, volunteers see as many as 2,000 visits a month.
It's a place neighbors from eight different zip codes depend on for fresh produce, baby supplies, and more. Many say it’s a vital resource to feed their families, with rising costs at the grocery store.
"It's been a little bit difficult having a family of six,” said Christian, a visitor of the food pantry. “With the rising prices of items and the groceries and all of that it makes it a little bit challenging.”
And now, another challenge. Extra SNAP benefits are ending March 1, a measure created to help in the pandemic.
This means 1.4 million Ohioans will see a decrease in their monthly allotments, according to Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services, which averaged around $90 a month.
"So for each family we know it's $90 per person, per month,” said Mike Hochron, senior vice president of communications at Mid-Ohio Food Collective. "That is a huge difference. Where do you find that money in your budget?"
The Mid-Ohio Food Collective and its hundreds of partners across the state are expecting a spike in need once those benefits expire this week. That's why they have been preparing to meet the increased need.
"Especially among our most vulnerable folks,” said Nick Linkenhoker, executive director of Worthington Resource Pantry.
Food banks leaders say they are ready to help and don't want anyone to hesitate reaching out.
"There's no one neighborhood in central Ohio hunger affects, it's everywhere,” said Linkenhoker.
"And for friends in this generous community who want to help you can donate your time you can donate your money we need to make sure we are all coming together to support our neighbors during this time,” Hochran said.