YORK COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) — The food insecurity rate across Pennsylvania is almost 12% — that’s according to a recent “Map the Meal Gap” study.

“In York County, unfortunately, it is a significant issue,” said Jennifer Brillhart, the President & CEO of the York County Food Bank.

Officials say more than sixty thousand people in York County don’t have access to food.

“We’re really trying to bring attention to the issue in terms of our kids because everybody going back to school to full time for families and we want to bring attention to just how big of an issue it is here in York County,” Brillhart added. “In fact, one in seven kids are food insecure here.”

To make sure it can feed the community, the York County Food Bank holds different events to raise money.

“We’re trying to bring some awareness to that today,” Brillhart said.

The York County Food Bank held its 7th annual Food Bank Fundraiser Monday where Brillhart says, “We have four local chefs that are going to be here competing for an appetizer, an entree and a dessert to crown whoever is the iron chef winner.”

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And while this is a friendly competition for the community to enjoy, “We want to bring attention to just how big of an issue it is here in York County,” said Brillhart. “Generally, it’s just, you know, a choice whether to pay the bills or to go and purchase groceries.”

So, how do they make sure people can get healthy and fresh food on their table?

“We do a mass drive thru distribution twice a month. We have a senior box program. We have some backpack programs; we have mobile pantry and online pantry,” said Brillhart. “So, lots of different programs.”

Many food banks accept food and monetary donations so they can provide meals in their local community.

Food banks officials say they’re always looking for volunteers, so if you are interested in getting involved, contact a food bank near you.

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