IV Food Bank sees influx of families during pandemic

EL CENTRO, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - The Imperial Valley Food Bank has taken a hit during the coronavirus pandemic. However, they continue to see an influx of families in need.

With over 40 million Americans unemployed, including more than 36,000 in the Imperial Valley, the food bank has remained busy.

A study by the U-M School of Public Health found that those experiencing the most food insecurity are more likely to be Hispanic or black.

“I mean new families call every day, what I would say a day between 10-15 families. That we refer to distribution sites. If it's their first time we explain how the program works so they are aware of it,” said Jessica Espinoza, Cal Fresh Specialist, and food counselor.

The food bank says they have not experienced a shortage of food despite the increase of families in need.

“Since the federal program is consistent so they send out, they even are sending more stuff like emergency boxes and those emergency boxes we distribute to Campesinos Unidos or other big agencies such as Salvation Army and catholic charities,” says Espinoza.

The emergency boxes include canned goods and fresh produce.

Espinoza says being able to help people during these times is imperative.

“it's an honor to be able to assist the community especially in times like this. Personally, what I do, I only come to work and my house I don’t go out and about since I want to protect myself and that I can protect my coworkers and that way we can keep providing to the community," adds Espinoza.

The food bank is still physically closed to the public but continues to operate by phone.

For more information visit https://www.ivfoodbank.com/.