CLEVELAND — Higher prices of everyday items have impacted local organizations and resources over the past year in Northeast Ohio. The Salvation Army in Greater Cleveland said they served more than 70,000 residents throughout Cuyahoga County in 2023, providing food assistance and meals.
It’s a similar trend for other Northeast Ohio organizations. The Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank’s hunger relief network saw a 21% increase in visits in 2023 over 2022, telling 3News the need for grocery help was at an “all-time high.”
In data shared with 3News by the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, the number of unduplicated people served in 2023’s fiscal year was higher than 2022’s numbers, with the exception of the month of October. Already, the 2024 fiscal year’s numbers are higher than both previous years.
“We’re seeing a 27% increase year over year for our programs and services specifically related to food,” said Major Juanita Stanford at Salvation Army Cleveland West Park. “Here in the demographic on the west side of Cleveland, we’re seeing all folks across the spectrum. Some folks who have come for the very first time and are new to social services or helping organizations as it would be, and then others who have been around for a long time.”
At the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank, 30% of the families visiting their food pantries had never visited one before.
Stanford said the common denominator is increased prices over the past year putting pressure on people.
“The common theme is, ‘we need help, prices are rising, and our paychecks, if we receive them, cannot keep up,’” she said.
At the Cleveland West Park location, the pantry is open three days a week, with clients able to choose items they’d like.
Lora Ulch has been a client of the Salvation Army for the past two years, and credits the organization with helping support her and her family.
“I’m here today because it’s such a struggle,” she said. “Grocery stores are out of control, it’s hard, it’s hard, it’s hard for everybody, and these pantries are a blessing.”
Ulch said she uses the Salvation Army for food and clothing resources, helping take care of not only her, but her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
“I’m very thankful they’re here and they provide for all these families in need, and mine,” she said. “We all need a helping hand once in a while, it’s not a shame to ask.”
“There is no shame or embarrassment in coming, that’s what we’re here for, and we’re glad to provide it,” Stanford said. “It doesn’t matter if you used to be a person who could contribute. The reason why we’re here is because of your generosity, and because of your generosity, we’re able to pay it forward. And so, please come.”
If you need assistance, or if you would like to help, visit the Salvation Army Greater Cleveland’s website for more information.
Related Stories:
- 2024 Portage Lakes Polar Bear Jump aims to raise $125,000 for the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank: How you can sign up to take the plunge
- Health, Hope & Healing: Dr. Amy Acton goes inside the Greater Cleveland Food Bank's new Community Resource Center
- Greater Cleveland Food Bank holds last Muni Lot distribution event