ERLANGER, Ky. — A generous donation is helping a northern Kentucky food pantry keep its shelves stocked during a time of growing need.

At St. Vincent de Paul Northern Kentucky food pantries, every donation counts. Executive Director Karen Zengel and the rest of the team are working hard to keep shelves stocked.

“The need for food has grown exponentially. We are up 40% in visits and in the amount of food that we’re distributing to our neighbors in need,” Zengel said. “It’s very exhausting to feel like you’re on this treadmill and you can’t get ahead because the prices continue to rise.”

That 40% spike is compared to this same time last year from October through mid-March. Zengel said the surge is because of inflation.

“Prices are up in the grocery store. Inflation does not seem to be curbing, it just seems to continue to crawl upward. And that’s a lot for folks to be able to absorb,” she said. “You need to be able to put food on the table for your families.”

She said one big issue in northern Kentucky is a lack of income aligned housing. Rising costs for housing and other essentials are forcing tough choices.

“If you have to choose between spending your money on housing versus food, you’re going to pick keeping that shelter over your head,” Zengel said.

That’s why a recent donation was so appreciated. St. Vincent de Paul Northern Kentucky announced a $1,500 Gratitude Grant from Newport Elks Lodge #273. This grant will help stock the shelves at SVdP NKY's Cold Spring Food Pantry, allowing more people to fight food insecurity.

Inflation’s impact isn’t just felt by families, it’s hitting St. Vincent de Paul, too, as donations don’t stretch as far.

To keep up, they’re hosting food drives, including a “40 Days of Giving” campaign and a “Food Fight Against Hunger” competition, featuring local businesses.

The broad network includes 29 pantries across northern Kentucky, with three at their own facilities. St. Vincent de Paul has already served food to 8,000 people this year.

“It's wonderful at the end of the day. It’s a double-edged sword, though. We don’t want to be needed so much. And there is a lot of need in our community,” Zengel said.

For those looking to help, St. Vincent de Paul welcomes donations and volunteers, especially at the Erlanger pantry on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Top needs include boxed cereal, canned soup with protein, peanut butter and pasta sauce.