Jewish Family Service Agency reacts to faltering economy

The number of people seeking help from the Jewish Family Service Agency's food pantry has nearly tripled in recent months and the surplus the agency thought it would have for the year may turn out to be a deficit if demand continues at this rate, says coordinator Ellen Grossman.

Typically, the food pantry hands out about 30 bags of food each day, Grossman says. The day before Thanksgiving, 127 bags were handed out. The daily average has hovered around 100-plus bags in the past few months, she adds.

"It's very busy, our numbers in general have been increasing," she says. "All of the pantries are suffering. This year has been difficult. We're assuming it's the economy."

About 8,000 locals are fed annually through the Jewish Family Service Agency's food pantry, says Eric Goldstein, the nonprofit's interim executive director.

Demand usually drops during the summer but not this year, Grossman notes. It has continued into the fall and increased.

Those receiving assistance from the agency food pantry must show proof of residency and identification. Then, they can shop at the pantry twice a month for a maximum of six months.

"We serve everyone but our program is meant to be a temporary measure," Grossman says.

People receive an average of one bag per person; the larger the family, the more food they receive, she says. Each bag is balanced with carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits and proteins.

The pantry always is taking donations, Grossman says. It buys the majority of the food but people can give nonperishable items such as canned vegetables, fruits, beans and pasta. It can't accept anything that has expired, so check the dates before donating. Peanut butter is a great donation, because it's nutritious and economical, she adds.

Toiletry items also are needed, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoos, lotions and diapers.

Founded in 1977, the nonprofit provides "comprehensive social support to people in need, regardless of religion," Goldstein says. The annual operating budget is about $750,000, which enables the agency to offer several programs that meet the needs of the community, including emergency bill payment and adoption.

For more information or to volunteer, call 732-0304.

Contact reporter Sonya Padgett at spadgett@reviewjournal.com or (702) 380-4564.