More families are turning to local food pantries amid the current economic crisis, but some are finding the cupboards are bare.

The Food Bank for Westchester, formerly called the Food Patch, in Millwood, is trying to keep up with the demand for food. The Food Bank serves the county?s needy for the entire year. It delivers cases of food to food pantries, shelters and agencies throughout the entire county.

?We?ve seen an increase in the numbers at the food pantries and soup kitchens ? therefore our orders are really large ? 50-60 cases of turkeys at one time to one particular agency,? says Suzanne Johnson, of the Food Bank for Westchester.

While most people think of donating food during the holiday season, Food Bank officials say most of the recipients go to the pantries to get food for the current week.

Food Bank officials say they always welcome donations of either fresh food or canned goods. The Food Bank is open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.To see interviews about Food Bank of Westchester?s struggle for donations, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

Food Bank for Westchester