Meals Inc., a local nonprofit, shares how to stretch meals amid high costs

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – As grocery prices continue to rise, some families across south-central Kentucky are finding it harder to keep food on the table.

Local organizations say they’re seeing that struggle play out more frequently, with more people reaching out for help in recent months.

One group working to meet that need is Meals Inc. in Bowling Green. Every Saturday, volunteers gather to prepare hundreds of hot meals from scratch for people in the community who need assistance.

Bill Oldham, a member of the organization and past president, says the effort typically produces between 255 and 270 meals each week, which volunteers then deliver directly to recipients.

But Oldham says demand has been growing.

“In the last six months, I have started receiving more and more phone calls,” Oldham said. “And the phone calls that I’m getting are people under a lot of stress.”

Food assistance programs like Meals Inc. have historically served older adults, but Oldham says the demographics of those seeking help are shifting.

“What I’ve seen an increase in is families… younger people with children,” Oldham said.

For families trying to stretch their grocery budgets, Oldham says focusing on simple, affordable ingredients can help meals go further.

He recommends building meals around a starch and a protein, noting that rice is an inexpensive staple that can be used in a variety of dishes. Beans are another affordable option that provide a strong source of protein.

“Garbanzo beans, black beans, any sort of beans have a lot of protein and are relatively inexpensive,” Oldham said.

Community resources are also available for families who need immediate assistance. Oldham points to local food distribution events that help provide essentials like meat, produce and canned goods.

A food distribution organized through Feeding America is scheduled for Wednesday at Lampkin Park, where residents can receive groceries at no cost.

Oldham says during difficult economic times, community support can make a meaningful difference.

“Just check on your neighbors… check on your family,” he said. “It’s a tough situation to be hungry.”

Organizations like Meals Inc. say volunteers and community involvement remain key to helping ensure families across the region have access to meals when they need them most.