Officials say food pantries in northeast Mississippi are feeling the strain of serving more people following two recent plant closings in Itawamba County.

Hickory Hill furniture in Fulton and Wicks ’n More candle makers in Mantachie have closed in the past two months. And both the Fulton Food Pantry and Food Pantry West have been hit with steadily increasing numbers since the closings.

In October, the Fulton Food Pantry served a personal record-breaking 19,995 pounds of food to 403 families and 858 people. Food Pantry West packed and distributed a record 330 boxes of food.

Johnnie Kelso, who heads Food Pantry West, says despite the increase, both pantries have strong support from the community and will be able continue to serve those in need.