Elk Grove Food Bank Stretched Thin

ELK GROVE (CBS13) – Food supplies at Elk Grove's Food Bank Services are flying off the shelves even faster these days.

But, recent changes are making it difficult to give to those who need it, leaving Ken Franklin – operations manager at the food bank – concerned.

"This time of year is kind of a downturn for us as the donations take a dip off and we're going into donations from last year," Franklin said.

With two new zip codes added to their service area and a growing population of homeless and elderly, donations can't come in quick enough.

"We serve about 3,600 people per month so the need is very great and rising," Franklin said.

Last month alone, the food bank served 500 elderly people.

"The more donations we get the better," said volunteer Pamela Baker.

To reach out to more of those in need, they're extending their hours.

"Every Saturday we're open now, we want families to come," Baker said.

But being stretched thin means less to give – and with the shelves looking pretty bare, they're relying on the community for help.

"Canned soup and veggies is what we're lacking right now," Franklin said.

Volunteers hope the extended hours will give people a chance to stop in.

"We do like to give a certain amount to carry them to their next paycheck, or into their next month, so they don't have to choose between medical bills or food," Franklin said.

Next month, the Run 4 Independence in Elk Grove will give back to the food bank and volunteers are hoping for a big turnout.