As inflation hits many hard throughout the region, state, and country, the case is no different at area food shelves. Pella Community Food Shelf Executive Director Melissa Zula says they’ve seen at least a 20 percent increase in the amount of people they are serving regularly across the region this year compared to 2022. Zula says that demand increase coincides with the end of pandemic related programs for assistance, the return of student loan payments, and the increased cost at the cash registers of grocery stores. Zula appreciates those who have continued to support their operations at their new location at 1111 West 16th Street. Find out how to support the Pella Community Food Shelf here, and stay tuned to Food Drive Friday Special Edition News magazines throughout the holiday season to learn more about the fight against hunger locally.