Mid-Ohio Food Collective teams up with 'My Project USA' to tackle 40% surge in hunger needs

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The hunger needs are so great across Central Ohio. In fact, the Mid-Ohio Food Collective said the need has gone up 40% compared to last year and they're helping thousands of families every month.

One of those efforts is partnering with the non-profit group 'MY Project USA'. It started a pantry two years ago in the Hilltop and initially helped about 100 families a week.

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Now, that number is up to 600 or more families, that’s helping feed about 2,000 people every single week.

“I'm very sad to see that the need is so great. But I am very happy that we are able to help people but it really breaks my heart," said MY Project USA Founder Zerqa Abid.

Organizers said when kids go hungry, they follow the wrong path. But the moment they walk into a place like the pantry, their bellies are not only full but there are so many resources to help them thrive in the community.

“What we really like about this partnership is that not only is it a market, a Mid-Ohio market where you can get more food, it's open more, the expression of healthy options, the big thing is the additional resources here too,” said Mid-Ohio Food Collective Director of Programs Kerry McCarthy.

The group provides ESL classes, extra-curricular activities for kids, and so much more. Some call it a “game changer” for kids in this neighborhood.

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“I’m humbled that God has chosen me, God has chosen this project and have given us Mid-Ohio Food Collective as wonderful partners," said Abid.

Visit MY Project USA to learn more about pantry hours or the resources provided.