When Jennifer began her new job as a meal delivery driver, she was eager and excited. But with the rising cost of food and gas, she’s finding it difficult to cover the cost of groceries on top of paying her bills.

With food costs increasing almost 9 percent over the last year, many of our neighbors are also struggling to pay their bills and still have enough to get the nutritious food they need to live a healthy lifestyle.

Jennifer visited our mobile pantry food distribution in Monroe this summer with her mother, Beverly. Beverly is also struggling to get the food she needs. She told us she used to be able to grab what she wanted while shopping without hesitation, but she is now having to carefully check the prices.

Jennifer and Beverly decided to turn to the Food Bank for help, and they both picked up chicken, onions, butter, and a 30-pound box of shelf stable food items at the distribution.

“It’s a blessing,” Jennifer said. “I’m just thankful there are people out there willing to help.”