Trips to the grocery store have come with an increased price tag lately. The Consumer Price Index indicates that food prices have increased 11.9% in the past 12 months, according to the Help Office of Owensboro. That has created a greater need for help for those struggling financially to put food on the table, and has also reduced the Help Office’s purchasing power.
For 50 years, the Help Office has relied on individual, organization, and church donations of money and food to keep its shelves stocked. The Tri-State Food Bank is its resource for food purchases.
“We can purchase meat at 14 cents per pound; canned soups, snacks, canned vegetables for 14 cents; and some items are free. For example, we receive free weekend food backpacks for school-age children. While we get many food items at an incredible low cost, it still takes money to purchase items not available at the Food Bank,” said Executive Director Angela Settle. “Hundreds of families in Owensboro and Daviess County are really struggling with the rapid increase in living expenses. Many have never recovered financially from the economic impact of the pandemic.”
When families come to the Help Office, they can receive 5 days worth of meals per household member one visit per month. In April 2021, groceries for 1,860 meals were provided. That number more than doubled the next month and totaled 5,265 meals in June 2021. In June 2022, a total of 9,900 were distributed.
On an emergency basis, the Help Office also may be able to provide some assistance to a family facing eviction or utility disconnects. For some clients, rent has doubled in recent months and utilities have climbed.
There are opportunities for the community to help with this growing need.
Food donations can be delivered to the Help Office of Owensboro at 1316 West 4th Street. The office is open from 9 a.m. to noon on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Badly needed financial donations may be sent to the above address. Call the office at 270-685-4971 for additional information.
Food items badly needed at this time include: canned fruit, canned vegetables, rice, canned tuna/chicken, peanut butter and jelly, macaroni & cheese, dried milk, canned pasta (Ravioli, Spaghetti O’s, etc.), boxed potatoes (potatoes au gratin, boxed mashed potatoes, etc.), and beef stew. Personal hygiene and household cleaning supplies are also needed.
