Centre Co., PA (WJAC) — It’s a “holiday season present” for several Centre County food banks and pantries that will go a long way in helping their clients year-round.

The numbers on how many go hungry in America vary wildly and experts say they’re probably lower than the actual reality.

The Feeding America organization estimates that at least 38 million people, including 12 million children, struggle to get a decent, daily meal. It’s termed food insecurity.

This week, Penn State announced the results of a survey where 14-percent of their students say they don’t eat at least one day a month because they can’t afford food. Unfortunately, it’s a common story in every community.

“Increased food insecurity in Centre County and central Pennsylvania is a real concern. Going into this winter, it’s important for our community members to be generous with our food banks.”

Generosity from Centre County administrators came in the form of new refrigerators and freezers which are now being distributed to 7 Centre County food banks and pantries.

They are valuable resources for agencies that remain busy, working together to meet the demand.

“We serve people throughout the community in our pantry, but we also support other pantries throughout the county and their social service agencies.”

Those working for food banks and agencies are continuing to see new clients as well.

“Food insecurity is something a family can fall into very quickly. Should I take this medicine I need? Should I buy fuel for the home? Should I buy food for my family?”

The pandemic hit food banks hard with a sharp increase in demand.

The new refrigerators and freezers in Centre County are being paid for through federal COVID relief funding.