THRIVE Peninsula is calling for community support after seeing a dramatic rise in families needing help. Last week alone, the nonprofit received 519 requests for food assistance—more than double its usual number. Along with that, dozens of furloughed workers have reached out, unsure how they’ll afford rent and basic bills as November approaches.

The surge comes amid a mix of challenges hitting local families hard: federal furloughs, contractor layoffs, delayed EBT benefits, and the lingering pressure of inflation. To keep up, THRIVE’s team held an emergency meeting to find ways to expand services and meet the rising demand as quickly as possible.

They’re now asking residents to step up through food and monetary donations. Most-needed items include cereal, canned fruit, tuna, greens, spaghetti, and sauce. Donations can be dropped off at THRIVE Peninsula, ordered through their Amazon list, or made online at thrivepeninsula.org/donate.

Community members can also launch a Hunger Heroes campaign with their workplace, church, or neighborhood group to collect food and funds. Every can, dollar, and act of kindness will go directly toward helping local families weather this tough stretch.

As THRIVE says, “If we band together, we can meet the need.”