Fall in Bismarck brings cooler temperatures and higher utility bills for many households. The Dream Center’s food pantry, located near downtown, is already feeling the impact as more families turn to its shelves for essential staples such as hot soups, cereal, and fresh produce.

Winter squeeze fuels pantry traffic

“We normally see a little bit of an increase at the start of the fall and winter season,” said Jim Barnhardt, the pantry’s founder. “And it progressively gets to be a little bit more so as the high utility bills start coming in.”

According to the latest USDA data, feeding a family of four on a moderate budget now exceeds $1,000 per month nationwide, while a single adult’s food costs can top $400. When those numbers are added to soaring fuel prices, getting to the pantry can become a hurdle for many.

Transportation assistance helps families reach the pantry

Barnhardt explained that the Dream Center relies on ride‑sharing among neighbors to bring people to the pantry. “People will, you know, get together, two or three households in a car, and they will come on over,” he said. The center even keeps a spare vehicle on hand for those whose cars run out of gas in the lot, offering fuel assistance as needed.

Serving low‑income families and seniors

While the pantry does not serve people who are homeless, it does see a large number of low‑income families and seniors who are stretching a paycheck that often runs out before month‑end. In addition to grocery items, the Dream Center provides a hot breakfast each morning and a hot dinner each evening, ensuring that no one has to choose between a warm meal and keeping the lights on.

“Most of what we’re seeing is people coming who just are running short on the funds, you know, with what’s going on with the economy right now,” Barnhardt said. “The low‑income are being affected the most, and our real goal here at the Dream Center is to keep people from becoming homeless.”

Donations and food‑rescue partnerships keep shelves stocked

As winter approaches, the pantry’s staff emphasizes that local donations and food‑rescue partnerships will be critical to maintaining a full supply of essentials. Community members are encouraged to contribute non‑perishable items, fresh produce, and monetary gifts to help meet the growing need.

The Dream Center’s food pantry and hot‑meal services are open to anyone in the Bismarck community who needs an extra hand. Detailed pantry hours and meal schedules are available on the center’s website.

How you can help

Residents who wish to support the pantry can volunteer to drive neighbors, donate food, or contribute financially. The center also welcomes corporate partners and local businesses to sponsor meals or provide in‑kind donations. By working together, Bismarck can ensure that families stay fed and warm throughout the harsh winter months.

Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.