In the Bay Area, food banks are facing a critical need for donations to provide support to struggling families during this holiday season. In San Jose, Sacred Heart Community Services plays a vital role, assisting around 600 families on a daily basis and preparing to distribute more than 4,000 Thanksgiving boxes next week. The agency is in urgent need of more frozen turkeys, chickens, and hams to fill these boxes and meet the growing demand.

Impact of Rising Food Prices

Demone Carter from Sacred Heart Community Services emphasizes the severity of the situation. "The need is greater than ever," they say. Since 2001, food prices have seen a significant increase of 25%, which has a profound impact on families, especially those living in poverty. This rise in prices makes it even more challenging for families to put food on the table during the holiday season.

Such price hikes directly affect the ability of families to afford essential items. It puts a strain on their budgets and forces them to make difficult choices about what to purchase. For many, the holiday season should be a time of joy and togetherness, but without adequate food donations, it becomes a struggle.

Sacred Heart Community Services is working tirelessly to address this issue and provide assistance to those in need. Their efforts highlight the importance of community support during these challenging times.

Weekly Struggle in Town

Across town on Thursday, another sign of the struggle was evident. The weekly line for help stretched for blocks around the Crossroads Calvary Chapel on Capitol Avenue. This marked the last distribution before Thanksgiving for volunteers, and this time, the kits included sleeping bags to keep people warm during the cold nights.

The long line of people waiting for assistance shows the extent of the need in the community. It is a clear indication that many families are facing hardships and rely on these food banks and volunteer efforts to get by.

The Crossroads Calvary Chapel and its volunteers are making a significant difference in the lives of those in need. Their dedication and commitment to helping others during the holiday season are truly commendable.