Food banks to receive federal funding

April 13, 2009 The American Reinvestment and Recovery Act is intended to help feed the increasing number of families in need.

Also, average households of four receiving food stamps will see benefits go up by $80 this month.

Sen. Dick Durbin was at a pantry in Des Plaines on Monday to discuss the funding and why it's so important.

"More and more people are showing up who never dreamed that they'd ever be doing this. but they're in a position in their life where they have no place else to turn. and we have to make sure that this good and caring nation and the people that live in it are there to give them a helping hand," said Durbin.

Senator Durbin says local food banks are reporting a 30 percent increase in the number of people requesting help over last year.

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