Every box packed and every bag handed across the counter at the Food Pantry of Indian River County represents a family or individual trying to make ends meet.
For decades, the Vero Beach organization has provided supplemental food assistance to residents facing food insecurity. Today, leaders say the need is growing as more families struggle with rising grocery prices, housing costs and other everyday expenses.
“Our mission is to provide food to those who are nutritionally challenged here in Indian River County,” said Mark Rice, Director of Development for the Food Pantry of Indian River County.
According to Rice, approximately 11% of county residents and 16% of children are considered food insecure.
“That’s quite a crisis,” Rice said…