Elk City, OK – HELP Inc. Food Pantry is asking western Oklahoma residents for help as increasing demand and declining donations put pressure on the organization’s food supply.

The Elk City-based pantry currently provides food assistance to approximately 900 families each month across Beckham, Roger Mills, Dewey and Washita counties. Officials say the pantry is also receiving about 30 new applications for assistance each week.

The increase in demand comes at a time when community food donations have declined. Pantry officials say recent changes to SNAP benefits have also contributed to more families seeking assistance.

HELP Inc. is seeking both food and financial donations to help keep pantry shelves stocked. Items currently needed include canned tuna, canned chicken, peanut butter, cereal, canned vegetables and boxed meals.

Food and monetary donations may be taken to HELP Inc., 609 W. E Ave. #1 in Elk City. Donations and food distribution are handled through the rear service entrance.

Regular food pantry hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesdays from 3:30 to 6 p.m., and the third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon.

HELP Inc. is also planning a Fall Ball Family Dance benefit for Friday, Oct. 9, as part of its efforts to support the organization and the families it serves.

With approximately 900 families already relying on the pantry each month and dozens of new applications arriving weekly, HELP Inc. is encouraging community members who are able to contribute food or financial assistance to do so.

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