Local Food Pantries Look for Holiday Help

As local families gear up for the holidays, the demand for donations at area food banks have risen to an all-time high.

Sister Judy Fay of in East Meadow reported a near 25 percent increase of people in need compared to last holiday season.

"We are seeing many more people coming in," explained Fay. "People who used to donate are now coming in, embarassed and reaching out for help."

In times where jobs are decreasing and expenses are rising, Fay said that it's become tough for middle class families to balance it all.

"What used to be the middle class seems to be diminishing," she said. "They have food security issues on top of a mortgage or rent payment and basic needs."

Though the holidays are certainly a busy time at food banks, Fay stressed the importance of donating throughout the year.

"Some forget that people are hungry all year round," Fay said. "Summertime and post-holiday season are particularly low [in donations]."

In addition to the usual non-perishable goods that food banks take, Fay said paper goods and household items that are not covered by food stamps are in especially high demand, including toiletrees, toilet paper and cleaning supplies.

"Poor people are often seen as dirty, but sometimes, they have to make a choice between feeding their family and household products," Fay said.

Fay also had a message for those fortunate enough to provide for themselves this holiday season and everyday.

"No one person is going to save the world," she said. "But everyone can do somethign to help their neighbor in need."

Where to donate:

• : 600 Newbridge Rd., East Meadow
• : 757 Bellmore Ave., East Meadow
• St. Barnabas the Apostle: 2320 Bedford Ave., Bellmore
• St. Brigid's Parish: 50 Post Ave., Westbury

What to donate:

• Paper goods: toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, paper plates
• High protein foods: tuna fish, peanut butter, jelly
• Low sodium foods: vegetables, soups
• Fruit: fruit juices, canned fruit