Yuma Food Bank sees higher demand during pandemic

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - The Yuma Community Food Bank has seen a 50 percent increase in demand since the coronavirus pandemic forced many non-essential businesses to close.

President and CEO of the food bank, Shara Whitehead says they are now seeing restaurant workers due to a decline in revenue from their business.

"Most of the people that we are seeing are people that are from restaurants that have never been, they have never been to the food bank before. And that's, that's hard," Whitehead said.

The process includes volunteers who stock food baskets with nonperishable items and milk, all at a six-foot distance and while wearing gloves.

Whitehead says all carts are sanitized before being reloaded and passed out again. The only people who are allowed inside the facility are the volunteers.

One volunteer, Cheryl Bergau says this is her way to give back to the community. Although she can't contribute financially, she hopes this will make an impact during these uncertain times.

"Because I can't contribute financially, I'm in, you know, in need as well," said Bergau. "This is the best way that I could do it: my time, helping the people that need it."

All a person needs to receive a basket is a government ID and a proof of residency in Yuma County, such as an electric bill.