Food Pantries Feeling Pinch Of Economy

Some families are having to choose between driving and eating in Johnson County.

"There are a lot of new clients in because of the fuel, not being able to get to work, and having to utilize the pantry," social worker Rachel Nunez said.

KMBC's Donna Pitman reported that most case workers at Catholic Charities Emergency Assistance Center have the same story: Families are having to choose whether they'll fill up their cars or their kitchens.

"I had a client who recently lost her job, could not afford to commute from Kansas City to Olathe, now is looking for work close to home," Nunez said.

"Just recently, six months or so, we've seen this kind of incredible jump," said Shirley Kelso, program manager for Catholic Charities.

Families are needing staples just to close the gap between paychecks and the pump.

"They're on a shoestring. One thing goes wrong and the whole budget is blown to bits," Kelso said.

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