It's a story that may show us just how bad the economy has become in our area. 500 local people, each standing in line for a box of food that many of them are hoping will last them a month.

Friday morning, Saint Vincent's Food Pantry gave out turkeys, ham and all the fixings for a holiday meal, to families who otherwise may have gone without.

Despite bitter cold temperatures, locals in need waited in line at Saint Vincent's, each of them with a personal story about their journey to the food line.

"I got laid off about a year ago and my unemployment ran out. I'm 42 years old and this is the first time I've ever had to stand in a food line during the holidays. I can't afford gifts for my kids," said Denise Dykes of Reno.

And while their stories are heartbreaking, the Saint Vincent's staff says they had to turn away 500 others just like them.

"I started a waiting list and as we had extras, we give them a call and let them know. So far, only about 20 people have gotten that call," said Maryanne Berdan, who runs the food pantry.

And the holidays are not the exception, and in fact, food pantry organizers say the need has gone up in general. During an average month last year the pantry fed about 5,000 families. This year that number has sky-rocketed to 12,000, turning the food line into a chance for some people to end their ongoing hunger.

While each of the boxes had enough food in it to cook a special holiday meal, most people say they plan on stretching it out as long as possible.

"If I use it with other food, it might last me, two and a half weeks," said Robert Zamora of Reno.

"Stretch it out. We have to go the whole month," added Midge Fleming, who says she and her disabled husband are barely getting by.

Pantry volunteers say while the spotlight might be on the needy, simply because of the giving season, they've seen the firsthand just how many people are struggling.

"It's pretty much like this everyday," said volunteer, Chris Frank.

Which is why they say they keep on coming back.

"Thank God for Saint Vincent's. I'm very grateful. They've helped a lot of people," said Denise Dykes, as she sobbed quietly.

The food pantry is always accepting food donations at 500 East Fourth Street Location. Drop-off hours are from 9:00 to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Also, to sign up as a volunteer for the food pantry or the Saint Vincent's Dining Room, call 322-7073.