NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — Hunger is real and that's why one group wants to feed as many families in need as possible across Western New York. Peanut butter and jelly are staples being collected for local food pantries.
53 jars were dropped off at Community Missions in Niagara Falls on Wednesday.
"The Niagara County Deputy Sheriff's Association had a party last night and they gave us jars of peanut butter and jelly for our drive. We were able to translate that over to the people that need it the most here in Niagara Falls," said Peter Robinson, organizer and a member of law enforcement in Niagara County.
"You have children that just don't have and with this even, if the power goes out, you can still feed them. It doesn't take much to grab a spoon and jar of peanut butter and jelly and have yourself a snack or something and that will get you through to the next day," Robinson said.
Christian Hoffman at Community Missions in Niagara Falls said hunger is very real. They are seeing more people than ever at the soup kitchen.
"It's unbelievable. Over the past two years the number has exploded. Last year we served 89,000 meals, this year we're on pace for 104,000," Hoffman said.
Many people needing meals are the working poor.
The Peanut Butter and Jelly drive is underway. You can learn more on the Facebook page about places to donate.
"We need peanut butter, jelly and fluff so we can feed the food pantries and the people that need it the most," said Robinson.