CRISFIELD — The Crisfield Food Pantry at Immanuel United Methodist Church is again asking for help this year.

The community is still recovering from superstorm Sandy, and with a decrease in visitors and for two years a poor crabbing season the local economy continues to be depressed.

A food pantry spokeswoman added that Congress cut the food stamp program, “and many food banks around the country are struggling to keep up with demand. Unfortunately, like us, many food banks have also lost their funding.”

In Crisfield, the poor economic conditions caused the number of people coming to the food bank to triple last year. “We served an average of 80-90 families a month last year. In the past, the food pantry was able to give families two bags of groceries twice a month. Last year we were only able to give two smaller bags of groceries once a month. Without help, we may have to turn people away this year.”

The Crisfield Food Pantry is a charitable tax deductible organization and accepts assistance from the public. Any donation, large or small, is greatly appreciated. Donations may be sent to:

The Crisfield Immanuel Church Food Pantry c/o Immanuel United Methodist Church, 206 W. Main Street, Crisfield, Md., 21817.

Contributions will be used to purchase food staples such as canned fruits and vegetables, cereals, grains, beans, rice and protein. Some funds may be used for household and personal necessities such as toilet paper, laundry detergent, face soap, and toothpaste.