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Area food outreach programs are feeling a new effect of the sour economy.
Some people are losing their jobs. And now, people who had never thought of needing a food bank before are turning to the programs for assistance. And that is placing an increased demand on the food banks in place.
"We're seeing a lot of people who've lost their jobs, and not just temporarily laid-off, they're looking for work," Terry Collier of the Chilton County Emergency Assistance Center said Wednesday.
Others have fallen on hard times because of sudden changes in their personal lives.
"We had a man who was just diagnosed with cancer. He has two small children. His wife left him, and he just didn't know where to come, so he came right here," Collier said.
At the center's food bank, the shelves are still stocked. Collier is grateful donations have remained steady.
But with the increase in demand, there is concern that if more food doesn't come in, some people could get turned away.
The concern is heard not only in Chilton County but also at other food banks across the state. During good economic times, donations are often plentiful. But when the economy slows down, those who donate have to tighten their own belts, meaning demand on the food banks grows while donations remain flat or go down.
"When I started, I didn't realize there were as many people that were in need for things like this," said Dwight Thomas, who oversees the food bank in Clanton. "There's a great need out there, more than what you would realize."
The food bank is just one part of the Emergency Assistance Center's outreach. The agency also provides transportation for county residents who need it. There is an on-site thrift store that is open to anyone to help fund the outreach program. And donated furniture and household items are available for purchase at a deeply cut rate.
But the main focus of the center is helping Chilton County neighbors make it during tough times.
There are processes in place to make sure those who use the center do not abuse the center. "We can always help somebody one time. But in order for them to be able to come back, they do have to meet criteria," Collier said.
He hopes more people who can afford food will set aside a few dollars to help those who cannot. Needs are often basic, such as non-perishable items. A check of the current stock found common items such as canned goods, peanut butter, cereal, juices and Pop-Tarts.
Local restaurants are chipping in as well. Pizza Hut donates pizzas every week, giving those who need the service a break from items such as pork and beans or chicken noodle soup.
But the restaurants and other agencies cannot meet the need by themselves. In order to make sure the demand is met, Collier said anyone who is able is encouraged to help. "We really do depend on the people of Chilton County to help us out."
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