Harvest Hope Experiences 132% Increase in Service Demand

Harvest Hope Experiences 132% Increase in Service Demand 
In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, the food bank is seeing record numbers

Greenville, S.C. (June 30, 2020) – Just over 100 days since the food bank moved its emergency pantry services outdoors due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Harvest Hope reports a 132% increase in its services compared to 2019.

In four short months, Harvest Hope Upstate’s emergency pantry distribution line has provided food to nearly 67,500 individuals in Greenville and Laurens counties. This is three times what the branch saw this time last year.
“These numbers are staggering”, says Wendy Broderick, Harvest Hope Food Bank CEO. “Not only because these are neighbors who need our help; but the demand continues to increase and no one knows when it will end.”
Harvest Hope currently operates its emergency food pantry curbside distribution line on Monday and Wednesday from 9 am – 1 pm. Dozens of volunteers safely gather outside to place food items into the trunks of those needing food assistance. 
“As we continue to navigate through this crisis, we are so grateful to the volunteers and donors who continue to support our mission to help those in need,” says Barry Phillips, Harvest Hope District Executive Director.
If community members would like to make a contribution or get involved to help Harvest Hope with its COVID-19 response, please visit harvesthope.org.
Media members are encouraged to visit the Upstate branch at 2818 White Horse Road tomorrow, Wednesday, July 1, as we are expecting record numbers before the July 4th weekend.

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About Harvest Hope Food Bank
Harvest Hope Food Bank is a non-profit organization serving people in need in 20 counties across South Carolina. Harvest Hope distributes more than 32.7 million pounds of food each year and feeds approximately 31,405 people a week across South Carolina. Harvest Hope operates out of locations in Columbia, Florence, and Greenville, SC. For more information, visit harvesthope.org.