At TCMI Church in the northwest Las Vegas Valley, the food pantry has grown so large that it fills two warehouse rooms.

Sally Hernandez, 58, the pantry’s director, said she’s just doing her best to make sure nothing is wasted and that families throughout the valley are fed.

Every Saturday, Hernandez — with the assistance of volunteers from high schools, recovery centers, and other groups — distributes fresh produce, nonperishable goods, and premade meals to approximately 500 people.

It’s a number that continues to grow amid government welfare cuts and rising living costs, Hernandez said.

“In the past, we would get maybe 20 applications for new families in need of food. Within the past couple of weeks, we’ve seen hundreds,” Hernandez said. “That, to me, was overwhelming … It is becoming

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