MURPHYSBORO, Ill. (WSIL) -- The Murphysboro Food Pantry has raised concerns as the demand for food assistance grows while donations are low.

Pantry Director Megan Austin shared on Facebook that more than 50 new families per month have registered for assistance since July. This includes 20 new families within a five day period last week.

Austin stated food deliveries through the Emergency Food Assistance Program have significantly dropped. They went from more than 16,000 pounds in July to less than half by September.

November’s shipment is expected to provide some relief, but it will not include any meat, the food pantry stated. Organizers with the pantry say they are concerned about the shortage as Thanksgiving approaches.

The pantry is collaborating with grocery stores and distributor

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