Supply chain shortages impact some local food banks heading into busiest time of year

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (CBS 58)-- As supply chain shortages continue to strike most industries in the United States, its effect on food banks is becoming more noticeable heading into their busiest time of the year.

It's a new challenge, but not one they can't beat.

Local food banks are prepared to provide a meal for anyone who needs one this Thanksgiving.

"We're trying to make sure that everyone who needs a turkey gets one on their holiday plate," Hunger Task Force Director Sherrie Tussler said. "The holidays are made of not just tradition, but memories, and a lot of those are related to the foods that we had."

Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin is expecting to help 30 percent more families during this holiday season than they did in years before the pandemic.

"The challenge is we have more people who need help and it's a lot harder for us to be able to source food without being willing to pay extra for it," Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin Vice President of Development of Communication Scott Marshall said.

Supply chain issues are especially difficult on local food banks. Products are harder to find and more expensive to ship.

"We have been paying more than we ordinarily would budget or expect to make sure we can get that food in house and back out to people we know," Marshall said.

Even at the toughest of times, local food banks assure people won't go hungry.

Tussler said Hunger Task Force isn't experiencing any challenges with the supply chain.

"The food pantry network is well stocked, and Hunger Task Force is going to make sure that they're going to be okay," Tussler said.

If you're wishing to give, remember each food bank has different needs.

Hunger Task Force suggests donating a gift card. They're hoping to match each turkey donation with a gift card to purchase other holiday meal necessities.

Feeding America of Eastern Wisconsin said cash donations are most helpful, because it allows them to purchase what they know they need and spend the extra money on shipping to make sure it arrives on time.