Economic struggles have hit many in 2008 – but it is this time of year, as always, when a large number of local residents will struggle mightily to find a holiday meal. Luckily, there’s organizations like Bread for the City. The city’s largest food pantry even had some extra help earlier this week from Mayor Adrian Fenty. Fenty arrived in his trademark black cap, ready to assist Bread for the City’s Southeast distribution center begin the work of providing more than 10,000 low-income D.C. families with meals this holiday season.

Fenty helped staff fill bags with turkeys, produce, and canned goods on Wednesday morning. He also noted that organizations like Bread for the City were vital, because “we all know that government cannot do it all” – especially in light of the news that the Mayor’s Housing First initiative might be facing budget cuts next year.

Unfortunately, there will be a significantly larger number of Washingtonians who need help this winter. Greg Bloom, spokesman for Bread for the City, noted that the “first week of Holiday Helpings was the busiest week in our food pantry’s history – over 1100 turkey dinners were distributed.” He added that “overall, our food pantry is seeing an alarming 14% monthly increase in the number of visits this year compared with last.”

Bread for the City’s Holiday Helpings campaign is in full force. If you’re interested in helping them out during these busy months ahead, you can check out the organization’s blog or by emailing them directly – a small donation of $28 can provide a hearty meal for a disadvantaged family of four in your backyard.