Every day in the Lowcountry, families face the daunting reality of not knowing where their next meal will come from. This issue persists year-round, affecting a significant portion of the population. Brenda Shaw, the chief development officer for the Lowcountry Food Bank, reveals that over 12% of people in the area are food insecure. The Lowcountry Food Bank, a nonprofit organization, plays a crucial role in providing food to those in need. It hosts regular food distributions, serving a community where children make up over half of the food insecure individuals across 10 counties.

Food Insecurity: A 365-Day Challenge

During the holidays, there is a common perception that people become more aware of those struggling and offer help. However, Shaw emphasizes that food insecurity is a constant issue. "Food insecurity is a 365-day a year challenge. Yes, this time of year people are thinking about it more. You know, it is certainly in the forefront of all of our minds as we sit down to have celebratory meals with our families, we want other families to be able to have the same type of memorable meals, but we know that food insecurity is a challenge year-round for many families," she says. In the past year, the problem has worsened, with a significant increase in the number of people at their food distributions. Shaw attributes this to the national rise in food insecurity rates.The holidays add additional stress with finances, travel, and the pressure to give. This makes the current holiday season particularly significant for food insecure individuals. Eliminating the stress of feeding a family can have a profound impact on people's lives.The Lowcountry Food Bank has several community partners and is dedicated to providing food not only during the holiday season but throughout the year. They are constantly seeking donations, volunteers, and individuals to host food drives. Shaw highlights the importance of giving back. "I think, number one, it is better to give than to receive, but number two, I think, you know, when our community is nourished and thriving, we all win. So, you know, if we can really move the needle and make sure that we have a thriving community it is just a win-win for everyone," she says.This week, the Lowcountry Food Bank and its partners have food distributions scheduled every day. For a full list of upcoming food distributions in your area, click here. Food pantry locations are also provided. For those who wish to give back, volunteer opportunities and donation information can be found here.