The shelves may look stocked and full, but that's far from the truth at the Wiregrass Area Food Bank.

Wiregrass Area Food Bank Assistant Director Shirley Henderson said, "One thing that happens is we give it out and then we have to get it replenished. Even though you gave it to us we took it to the people who were at need."

Henderson says the amount of food going out outweighs far more than the amount coming in. "We are hurting more this year because it’s a bigger demand with the mortgage situation that's going on."

Henderson also adds the continuous downfall in the economy plays a crucial role in the shortage. She estimates they have more than 2000 pounds of food right now than they had this time last year.

And, Houston County isn't the only one in need of assistance.

Dale County Coordinator Julie Jones said, "We have more homeless people because of the jobs; we have quite a few people you know that [are] unemployed right now."

Jones adds that the area is in desperate need of food for the rescue mission, which is down in its stock by 40 percent from last year.

Residents who attend the mission say seeing less food on the shelves is a frightening reality.

Ozark Resident Christy Ellis said, "It troubles me because there's a lot of people who can't afford food."

Ozark Resident Robert Chislum added, “It makes me feel bad because I know it could be better, it could be better, much better 'cause I know it's here."

Both volunteer facilities say just a single box of food can make a major difference for those in need.

If you would like to donate or volunteer you can contact the Wiregrass Food Bank at 794-9775 or the Dale County Rescue Mission at 774-6553.

Volunteers say they are always asking for donations and will even pick them up if you are unable to deliver them.