A nonprofit organization hosted a pop-up food and winter coat giveaway for families in need today.

The event was spearheaded by Catholic Charities, which is hosting food pantries throughout the Hudson Valley. 

There were no crowds or long lines for the organization’s first outdoor pop-up food pantry of the year.

Officials say the need for food has more than doubled since last year. The initiative was established to help those struggling with food insecurity during the pandemic. 

“As the world we knew came to a screeching halt last March, we’ve had to pivot. We’ve had to adapt,” says Shannon Kelly, of Catholic Charities. 

Kelly tells News 12 people in isolation and quarantine who may have never had to ask for help are asking for it now.

“I lost my job, it’s hard. I try to struggle with two little girls and my husband just lost his job,” said one recipient. “This is the first time I’ve ever gone somewhere for food for help. We just hope whatever we can get, helps.” 

The organization is partnering with the Food Bank of Hudson Valley to distribute food and other necessities at the pop-up pantries.

They’re also getting the word out to those in need that relief is nearby. 

Catholic Charities is also delivering food pantry items to those who are sick, in quarantine or unable to drive.

The next pandemic-friendly drive-thru pantry will be held in Monticello next month.

A complete list of pop-up and drive-thru pantry locations can be found here.