Hilliard Food Pantry Plus served 16,630 people from 4,608 families in 2025, up from 14,062 people and 3,981 households the year before, according to the pantry's website.

That 18% jump in demand comes as a statewide survey underscores how deep the squeeze runs for Ohio families relying on food assistance.

The pantry's 2024 annual report shows the pressure extends beyond groceries. In 2024, the pantry provided $66,434 in utility assistance to 394 families facing shut-off notices. Families with a disconnection notice can receive up to $200 in utility help every 365 days.

In partnership with Hilliard Kiwanis, the pantry also provides meals every Friday to K-8 students facing food insecurity in the Hilliard City School District.

Statewide numbers add context

The Ohio Association of Foodbanks surveyed 2,644 pantry visitors between April 18 and May 22. The results, reported by the Ohio Capital Journal on Sept. 7, found 57% of households had to choose between paying for utilities and buying food. Among households with children, 65% faced that choice.

Forty-eight percent chose between medicine and food. Forty-five percent chose between rent and food.

Joree Novotny, executive director of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, told the Ohio Capital Journal that food is the first expense families cut. "You still have to put gas in the car to get to work … but food is a thing you can sacrifice," she said.

The survey also found that more than 100,000 Ohioans, including more than 50,000 children, have lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits since federal funding cuts, the Ohio Capital Journal reported.

How to help during Hunger Action Month

September is National Hunger Action Month. Henry, a pantry member and volunteer, said in the pantry's 2024 annual report that he could feel the warmth when he first walked in. "It touched my heart to see that we do have quite a lot of caring people in this world, especially in Hilliard," he said.

Hilliard Food Pantry Plus, at 3711 Main St., is open Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m., Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Families in seven area zip codes can receive a five-day supply of food twice a month. The Share Closet, at 4410 Cemetery Rd., is open by appointment.