Food demand by the numbers

Here's a look at the challenges facing local food pantries as the need for help increases.

• The Greater Chicago Food Depository surveyed member agencies and found an average of 33 percent more people are seeking help compared to a year ago. Suburban Cook County agencies reported increases in demand from 50 percent to 90 percent.

• The Northern Illinois Food Bank found the food pantries it serves, including DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties, saw a 30 percent surge in people looking for assistance.

• The Northern Illinois Food Bank estimates it will distribute 25 million pounds of food in 2008 compared to 22.5 million pounds in 2007.

• 90 percent of Greater Chicago Food Depository members reported that the increased demand was stressing their operations.

• The People's Resource Center in Wheaton has seen a 14 percent increase in food basket handouts from July through September.

• The FISH food pantry in Carpentersville experienced a 20 percent increase in demand from October through November.

• In addition to donations, money is welcomed by food distribution networks. Officials with the Northern Illinois Food Bank noted that they can buy 8 pounds of food for every dollar given.