The Heartland Hope Mission saw a 43% increase in families served during their Thanksgiving turkey distribution.
Food pantries definitely see an increase in use over the holidays, but food isn’t the only area of need this winter.
Lena Thompson, Senior Director of the United Way of the Midland’s 2-1-1 line, says a lot of people are seeking coats, gloves, scarves and socks as the temperatures drop.
Thompson says there’s also a need for personal hygiene items like soap, deodorant and shampoo. She says people can help by donating these types of items to their local shelters.
Thompson says if you need assistance, the best place to start is with a call to 2-1-1.
"Our database has a little over 3,000 referrals in it. Our search is zip code based so we try to send them to the nearest agency closest to them. We do sometimes even advocate on behalf of the caller and we will call around to try and find services for the caller. So they should definitely start with 2-1-1.”
Thompson says 2-1-1 operators give referrals for food pantries, rent and utility assistance and basic needs.
She says if there isn’t a program available, many times operators can do some research and call the person back if that’s an option for them.