With surging food costs and an increased need, many non-profits are still trying to keep up with demand. Now, organizations like Capital City Rescue Mission in Albany are trying to keep up with the demand. 

Organizers say planning holiday meals is a year-long effort, but this year, the shelter is trying to meet higher demands by increasing the number of meals served.

This year, the mission plans to increase the number of plates from 1,800 to 3,000. We spoke with Pastor Perry Jones, the shelter’s executive director, who said many volunteers have been preparing food for weeks.

“Prep is going good. We’re in full swing. You know, getting ready for 3,000 meals and all of the things that we do. But things are going good,” he said. “But this is just one great enhancement because Christmas is coming, and we have a lot of work to do.”

Perry said their holiday meals are only possible because of the many volunteers who devote weeks to helping with the meal prep. Even though the shelter is always accepting donations, it needs more volunteers to help with other responsibilities around the shelter.

He said volunteers can provide help with various skills- from administrative to helping with projects for meal prep.

“It’s amazing because of all of the cutting of the vegetables and meat, as well as all the things that have to be done. And plus giving away a lot of gifts to kids. For that, we have to have a lot of volunteers,” he said.

To donate or volunteer for the shelter, visit their website to learn more.