LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo. — A critical surge in food insecurity is gripping Lee’s Summit, as the nonprofit organization Coldwater reports a record-breaking string of months in the demand for its services. After 18 years of supporting the community, the pantry is currently navigating its most challenging period to date.
According to internal records, Coldwater has provided assistance to an average of more than 700 households per month over the last quarter. The organization shattered its previous service records in July, only to surpass that number again in September and October. With the holiday season approaching, leadership anticipates these figures will climb even higher as inflation continues to strain family budgets.
Sarah Knight, executive director of Coldwater, notes that the need is often hidden in plain sight. “Lee’s Summit is very good about keeping it very quiet,” Knight said. “The demand that we see—those people here every day that are needing help—is significant.”
For many residents, seeking help is a difficult step to take. Falicia Madrajal, a recent visitor to the pantry, admitted that she had to step well outside her comfort zone to reach out. “I took a chance today,” Madrajal said. “I don’t really like to ask for help.”
For Madrajal, the rising cost of living has made it difficult to keep her household stocked with basic essentials. On the most challenging days, she admitted that she has had to go without water or tolerate hunger to make ends meet. Walking away from the pantry with a shopping cart full of food, she described the experience as a “blessing.”
Dana Cheney, who has utilized food pantry services on and off for 15 years, echoed the sentiment that economic pressures are driving the current crisis. “Everything is too high priced nowadays, and our income just isn’t high enough,” Cheney said. She emphasized that there is no shame in seeking support, noting that, “Everybody needs some kind of help in some way or another.”
As Coldwater breaks records for daily visitor counts, the pressure on the organization to maintain its stock is mounting. Officials are urging community members to consider donating during this high-demand season.
There are multiple ways to support the effort. Monetary donations can be made directly through the Coldwater website. Additionally, a local coalition, Feed Lee’s Summit, is hosting a gala on November 13 aimed at fighting hunger in the city. Proceeds from the event will be distributed among five local organizations, including Coldwater. Further information regarding the gala and their mission can be found at feedls.org.
As the region moves deeper into the winter months, the resilience of both the community and its social safety nets will continue to be put to the test.
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