SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Portage Township reports over the past week that food pantries and congregate meal sites have seen increases in demand, ranging from 50 percent to 150 percent.

Township officials say this surge compounds a rising trend in food and housing insecurity compared to the same time in 2024.

Portage Pantry itself has seen 100 percent increase in visitors, with officials saying 70 percent of them were first-time clients.

The Food Bank of Northern Indiana is also ramping up efforts, with additional mobile pantry distributions in high-need areas.

The Food Bank is still planning a Thanksgiving turkey distribution targeting 3,000 families across St. Joseph County.

You can find out where to find local food pantries via the document below.