Record inflation impacting U.S. food banks now seeing higher demand

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - SEPTEMBER 30: Boxes of food are prepared before the BBM foodbank opens it's drive-through service at a nearby church carpark on September 30, 2021 in Auckland, New Zealand. BBM is a health and fitness group based in Manakau, South Auckland with the goal of reducing obesity in Māori and Pacific communities through education and group fitness classes. When Auckland's first lockdown last year forced the closure of BBM community boot camps and healthy cooking classes, founder Dave Letele switched his attention to making food parcels for people in need. Since Auckland's latest lockdown was announced in August, Letele estimates BBM has provided food parcels to nearly 12,000 people so far. People can apply online for a food parcel and do a drive-through pick up, or have boxes delivered. BBM doesn't receive any Government funding, with food packages being made with the help of donations and BBM funds, which founder Letele estimates to be around $70,000 so far. Auckland has been subject to lockdown restrictions since 18 August, after new community COVID-19 cases were found in the community. Under current Alert Level 3 settings, essential businesses and services can operate but must ensure appropriate physical distancing and contact tracing, with early learning centres and schools to reopen for children up to Year 10 whose parents or caregivers need to return to work. Restaurants and cafes can reopen for takeaway, delivery, or drive-through only. The only gatherings allowed under alert level 3 are weddings and civil union ceremonies, funerals and tangihanga, with up to 10 people only. People must remain in their household bubbles when not at work or school and masks remain mandatory outside of the home. (Photo by Fiona Goodall/Getty Images)