(4/10) As coronavirus (COVID-19) plays havoc with unemployment numbers across the nation, organizations who provide assistance to the increasing numbers of the needy continue to rely on donations to help them maintain their services.

Emmitsburg is no different, and food banks on both sides of the Mason-Dixon line find themselves in need, themselves, and rely on local contributions, both in the form of food and household products, as well as money.

The Emmitsburg Food Bank is located at 130 S. Seton Avenue, and serves the Emmitsburg community. The food bank operates under the auspices of the Religious Coalition of Frederick and the Emmitsburg Council of Churches.

Emmitsburg Food Bank Manager Phyllis Kelly said the food bank has experienced a "slight, very slight uptick" in patrons, but added, "I think we're going to see more."

Kelly said those interested in using their services must first provide a photo identification card which provides the food bank with proof of residency. The identification card must include evidence of the individual's or families' physical residence. A Post Office box cannot be accepted as proof of residency.

Individuals and families approved to participate in receiving food bank goods can then enter the facility, although she stated, at present, "They come in and choose" what products they wish to take home, but, "If the virus gets too bad, we may change" the manner in which the food and goods are handed-out.

The Fairfield Food Bank has already altered its allocation process to service recipients in their vehicles in the parking area, and volunteers bring the needed items out to the vehicles.

Allocations are apportioned based on family size, she said, and are usually in the form "of basics... beans, baking goods, eggs, cheese, bread, milk."

The food bank is also in need. Kelly said the bank is notably "low on cereal, pork and beans, canned fruit, beans (in general), tomato sauce, spaghetti, and juice."

Those wishing to donate can deliver the food or household products to the food bank during any of its open hours. Money donations can also be dropped off at the food bank during operating hours, or mailed to Emmitsburg Food Bank, P.O. Box 898, Emmitsburg.

For additional information, the Emmitsburg Food Bank may be contacted at 717-642-5822.