Food Bank for Monterey County doing well against inflation

SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Regional food banks are struggling to serve those in need because of food inflation and high gas prices, but the Food Bank for Monterey County is doing better than most.

This makes it especially difficult with Monterey County having one of the highest average gas prices in the nation.

"When you think about our costs it's the same inputs. We have our fleet of trucks that cover 3,700 square miles," said Melissa Kendrick, Food Bank for Monterey County Executive Director. "When we're purchasing food for the over 160,000 individuals we feed on a monthly basis, our costs have gone up significantly as well."

Kendrick said that they have seen their numbers go up on a weekly basis, but their donors are making sure they have the funding to continue to serve the community.

"As long as this generous philanthropic community continues to support our efforts, we will be able to ensure that nobody in this county goes hungry," said Kendrick.

Patryca Ely who is a volunteer at the food bank said that many things have changed because of COVID-19.

There are now fewer volunteers with more hungry mouths to feed.

"There's so many people now that are hurting that need food that haven't worked, and with the increase in prices of everything, we're seeing more and more people that are in need," said Ely.

There are certain things that the food bank has stopped doing but there are also plenty of new additions coming into the mix, such as their mobile produce truck.

The truck is equipped with generated refrigerators to help keep produce properly cold and it basically acts as a free farmers market.

“All the things that they’re doing, all the plans that they have to do things going forward is exciting," said Ely. "It’s going to be great to see all the things that are able to start.”

Workers and volunteers at the Food Bank for Monterey County said they're always grateful for any donations that can help them with their mission.

“This community is just amazing and when we let people know what’s going on,
they’re just incredibly generous," said Kendrick. "Those that can, do.”

If you'd like to help you can donate funding to them by mailing in checks or through their website.