HoCo Food Bank Sees Surge In Demand Due To Coronavirus

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Before the new coronavirus swept the country and settled into Howard County, the local food bank supported upwards of 50 households. But as the virus has caused businesses to shut down and people are ordered to stay in their homes, unable to go to work, the demand for services at the Howard County Food Bank has tripled. Complicating matters even further is that consumers have been hoarding supplies at stores and not donating to those in need at the food bank.

Bita Dayhoff, president of Community Action Council of Howard County, told Patch that more than 300 families have been added to the list of those being served since Head Start closed, meaning students are no longer receiving breakfast, lunch or a snack.

"The Howard County Food Bank is set up like a mini-grocery store and stocks all types of food items including fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry and dairy products," Dayhoff said. "Additionally, the Howard County Food Bank has limited supplies of diapers and health and hygiene products. All of the items are moving fast and our donations from the local grocery stores have basically come to a halt given that the stores are struggling to maintain their own inventory. The challenge has become multilayered with an increase in demand and reduction in supply via donations and an inability to purchase items in bulk. The protocol has changed completely."

To help keep its own staff and volunteers safe, as well as the families who frequent the food bank, non-perishable items are being prepackaged. Used carts are sanitized immediately after a shopper visits.

"We have also been asked to deliver food to families and elder individuals who are unable to come to the Food Bank or are safer staying at home," Dayhoff told Patch.

Currently, the Howard County Food Bank seeks donations of funds and non-perishable items. High-demand items include baby food, formula, bread and cereal. Once the virus is no longer a formidable threat to the public, the food bank would welcome donations of people's surplus items including the highly coveted toilet paper and other goods.

Donate online here.

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