TOLEDO, Ohio — Whether it was food, gas or rent, prices have gone up due to inflation.
With Thanksgiving right around the corner, there could be more people in need than in previous years.
"From the start of the year to now, we've seen about an 11% increase in numbers of individuals who need our services," Ann Ebbert, CEO of Cherry Street Mission Ministries said.
Because of inflation, food prices have been affecting everyone, including services like Cherry Street Mission and the Islamic Food Bank. Last year, a case of eggs cost Cherry Street Mission $22, but this year the cost has more than doubled.
"A case of eggs is $47," Ebbert said. "So that's an over 100% increase in the cost just to provide breakfast here at the mission."
The rise in prices may have caused stress for people. But for people who want to help those who can't afford a warm meal, they say it's worth the expense.
"There has been an increased need. (United Way) 211 has had increased calls for requests for food boxes," Erin Tupper, senior director of outreach at United Way Greater Toledo said. "We have 100 food boxes to give away through another program."
"We must have at least 78 pallets back in our warehouse," Lauren Bacans-Grounds, program manager at the Islamic Food Bank said. "Between all the programs that we are running this year for Thanksgiving, we are providing 400 food packs."
Because everyone knows what people are going through, people need warm food and support through the holiday season. Groups like the Islamic Food Bank and United Way say that motivates the community to help others.
"We're seeing a lot more in-kind donations from individuals as well," Bacans-Grounds said. "They'll maybe purchase too many cans of tomato paste at the grocery store and they'll bring the rest over on to us because they know there are folks who can use them here."
Cherry Street Mission Ministries, Islamic Food Bank and United Way of Greater Toledo are still accepting donations.