Bill and Margie Chapman felt uncomfortable about receiving groceries from the Post Falls Food Bank at first, but the couple realized it was a matter of survival.

"It was a very hard decision to do it, but once you get past that first stereotype that you're a dead beat, you realize how caring the people (at the food bank) are and want to help," Margie said. "We are on a limited income with Social Security disability, so by the time we pay our bills, it doesn't leave much for groceries. We couldn't make it without the food bank."

The Chapmans, who have been utilizing the food bank for about a year, are among those who represent an unprecedented demand for the nonprofit's help.

Sherry Wallis, food bank director, said the agency hopes to give Thanksgiving meals this year to 800 families representing more than 2,000 people. That compares to about 500 families last year.

The climb to get there will be a challenge.

"People are still giving as generously as they can, but they're giving less because they have less to give," Wallis said. "And the need continues to rise. We're seeing construction workers, people who can't even find part-time work, seniors, you name it."

Wallis said last year at this time the food bank had given out about 40 turkeys by this time, but there were less than 10 in the freezers this week.

Turkey dinner items, along with supplemental food, such as peanut butter, tuna, canned fruit and cereal are needed.

"I wouldn't say we're desperate because we're still receiving donations, but products we almost always had we almost never have now," she said.

Wallis is confident the need will be matched with giving.

"This community always seems to step up and help its neighbors," she said.

Meanwhile, the Rathdrum Food Bank is on pace to serve an estimated 200 families compared to 150 last year with Thanksgiving food vouchers to a local grocery store.

"We're seeing new people on a weekly basis and almost a daily basis," said Sharon Dillon, food bank manager.

Dillon said the nonprofit doesn't have refrigerators or freezers - and students and Boy Scouts will hold food drives this month - so the best way to help is with monetary donations.

The food bank at 8027 W. Main St. is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The ABC Food Bank in the Athol, Bayview and Careywood areas have had about 100 families sign up for Thanksgiving food baskets.

Director Charlotte Hooper said the faith-based agency plans to give out about 200 baskets, similar to last year.

The food bank is open on Tuesdays from 9 a.m.-noon and 1-3 p.m. to accept food donations at the Athol Community Center.

Those in need should sign up by Nov. 15. The baskets will be given out on Nov. 18.

Money donations can be sent to the food bank at P.O. Box 416, Athol 83801. Families can also be "adopted" for holiday food baskets. Information: 683-3244

"If we had 200 families in our area bring in one turkey, we'd be able to serve the people in need," Hooper said.

Post Falls food drives/fundraisers

Here are some community food drives/fundraisers to benefit the Post Falls Food Bank for the upcoming holidays:

• "We're Giving Hunger the Bird," Friday, Nov. 11, 4-7 p.m., Stancraft Boat Co., 4739 E. Seltice Way, silent auction, admission is a frozen turkey or $25, food and beverages to be served, silent auction

• "Turkey in the Tower," Saturday, Nov. 12, sponsored by Kootenai County Fire and Rescue and its union, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., 5271 E. Seltice Way, attendees encouraged to bring canned and boxed food items, pancake breakfast from 8-10 a.m. is $4 for adults, $2.50 for kids. Music, games, demonstrations.