``We have really seen an increase of need in the last six months,’’ said St. John.

St. John said for the first time in its history, the food bank must make an appeal to the public and ask for funds. She said the community has been generous in the past, and she hopes they will help out in a time of great need.

According to St. John, the number of clients has increased 30 percent more than in any other period of the food bank’s operation. St. John said the food bank generally fed anywhere between 70 and 80 people before the number increased last year.

She said in July the food bank fed 121 families and in August 112 families. It now averages over 100 families a month.

The increasing number of clients and rising costs of food has severely reduced the food bank’s resources.

``It is putting a lot of pressure on the food bank,’’ said St. John. ``We are very lucky we can get food at the minimum price from the regional food bank in Latham.’’

St. John said the demand for food to help those in need is expected to continue, and will probably increase as the economy slows down. She said she has seen an increase in people out of work and who receive incredibly low wages.

The food bank serves all of Otsego County and 15 percent come from the immediate Cooperstown area.

St. John said most of the clients that are sent to the food bank are referred by organizations such as social services, Bassett Healthcare and American Red Cross. In order to be eligible, members must meet the USDA guidelines that are based on family size, said St. John, who added most of the Cooperstown Food Bank clients make a lot less money than what is needed to meet qualifications.

Although most of the food the food bank receives is from the regional food bank in Latham, St. John said there are many wonderful supporters from the local community.

``The post office drives are wonderful and the school drives are exceptional,’’ said St. John.

St. John said the food bank gets much support from the local churches, the Chamber of Commerce, the Women’s Club, the Rotary Club and many more organizations. She said individuals help out as well.

Because of the growing demand of needy families, the food bank is asking for assistance from both old and new supporters. Checks may be made out to the Cooperstown Food Bank and mailed to 25 Church St., Cooperstown, N.Y. 13326.

The food bank is located in basement of the Presbyterian Church.