The record cold weather has resulted in a greater need for items supplied by Food Bank of Western New York. Area soup kitchens, shelters and food pantries are using more food items to feed those in need during the extreme cold. Food Bank spokesman Mike Billoni tells WBFO News the need is being felt throughout Erie, Niagara, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua Counties.
"We've been able to meet the demand, but the shelves always need to be fed," Billoni said.
Even the recent school weather closings boosted the need for food because students who normally rely on free breakfast and lunch school have been home
"The families now have to have more food in the house, so we've been finding that there has been a need for more food," Billoni said.
Soup kitchens and shelters are also looking for larger sized can goods as they work to prepare more hearty, hot meals for those in need.
