With furloughs, job cuts and the closing of some of Delaware’s largest employers, more and more Delawareans are feeling a pinch in their budgets.

Many families are reaching out for emergency food assistance for the first time ever.

The Food Bank of Delaware and its member agencies are reporting a 30 percent increase in need.

Among those seeking food assistance are families and individuals who once donated their time, money or food.

“As we look forward to spending time with family this holiday season, please remember our neighbors who are less fortunate,” says Food Bank of Delaware President and CEO Patricia Beebe.

“More and more Delawareans have become victims of this economic recession.

“Holiday food drives will be crucial as we work to make sure that no family goes hungry this year.”

The Food Bank is asking for the public’s assistance in making sure that no Delawarean goes without a holiday meal this season.

Businesses and schools are also encouraged to organize food drives throughout the holiday season.

Food collected from the holiday food drive will be distributed to people in need through the Food Bank’s network of 346 hunger-relief program partners.

These hunger-relief agencies include churches, food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, low-income day-care centers, rehabilitation programs, senior centers and more.

Donations can be dropped off at the Food Bank’s facilities through Thursday, Dec. 24.

The downstate facility is at 1040 Mattlind Way, Milford and is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday. For details, call 302-424-3301.