In a recent government meeting, representatives from a local food pantry in Lost City highlighted a significant surge in demand for food assistance, revealing that the organization has nearly tripled the number of households served since 2021. The pantry, which has been operational since 1982, reported serving over 1,800 households last year, a stark increase from just over 700 households two years prior.

This rise in demand is attributed to the conclusion of the enhanced Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and other financial support that many families relied on during the pandemic. The pantry's representatives noted that the ongoing supply chain issues have compounded the challenges they face, making it difficult to source essential items like peanut butter from their usual suppliers, Eastern Illinois Food Bank and Midwest Food Bank. As a result, they have been forced to purchase these items from local grocery stores, further straining their resources.

Additionally, the representatives expressed concern over a decline in individual donations, which they believe is linked to rising food prices affecting the community's overall budget. While they receive some grant funding from local trusts, this support covers only about one-third of their operational budget, leaving them in a precarious financial situation as they strive to meet the growing needs of the community.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for increased support and resources to address food insecurity in the area, as the pantry grapples with what they described as a \"perfect storm\" of rising demand, higher costs, and dwindling donations.