LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — For some families, having a meal on the table every day can be a challenge.
That's become even harder during a pandemic.
Food banks, such as God's Pantry, are stepping up to make sure those in need don't go hungry during the holidays.
Michael Halligan is the CEO of God's Pantry Food Bank. He estimates there has been a 16% increase in food-insecure households since COVID-19 hit. That's roughly 300,000 families across central and eastern Kentucky.
Halligan says thanks to donations and government commodity programs, the food bank has been able to meet their growing demand.
This week, the focus was on their Sharing Thanksgiving program.
Things were a little different than in the past. The National Guard came in to help assemble boxes, and meals were picked up curbside across three days.
Halligan says he's thankful for the generosity of those who stepped up to help their fellow Kentuckians.
"I am so grateful that people understand that there are those that are food insecure, those that are experiencing hunger. And I am so grateful that there are so many others who are willing to lean in and help," said Halligan.
Overall, God's Pantry was able to help out around 5,800 families have a happier Thanksgiving.
If you're in need of food assistance or would like to help, you can visit God's Pantry's website for more information.
