Rising food and gas prices impact residents

Many local residents are reporting increased hardship caused by food and gas inflation, as well as other economic factors. This year, Fallbrook Food Pantry has noticed a sharp rise of those seeking assistance with basic food supply. In March of last year, 16,287 individuals were assisted. This year in March that figure increased to 19,812 - an increase of 16.3%. The rising numbers of qualifying clients due to the economic downturn, a 20% increase in the cost of basic foods purchased for distribution such as milk, rice and beans—coupled with a recent decline in donations—have created a hardship situation for the local agency serving the disadvantaged.

Fallbrook Food Pantry wants to thank and encourage all those who drop off tax-deductible financial donations and donations of staples such as rice, dry pinto beans, spaghetti and spaghetti sauce, and canned vegetables. We also want to thank the local residents who have family farms, groves, and gardens who donate their fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables to make sure that those in need of it will receive it. One local resident brings a pickup of oranges and avocadoes every week and is making plans now to increase the amount he delivers.

The simple yet powerful act of sharing can lessen the hardship of those around us. Thank you for remembering our less fortunate neighbors in Greater Fallbrook today and everyday.

Frank Russell, president

Fallbrook Food Pantry