Roanoke Pantry Served More Families Amid Rising Costs

The Lion's Share Food Pantry has adopted a client-choice model to support a 20% increase in regional family demand.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Healthy Food

Roanoke Pantry Served More Families Amid Rising Costs

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The Lion's Share Food Pantry in Roanoke now serves just under 170 families each week, marking a 20% increase in volume compared to last year. The organization has transitioned to a client-choice model to address heightened food insecurity throughout Southwest Virginia.

Why it matters

Rising costs of living have intensified food insecurity, with recent survey data showing 55% of households in Southwest Virginia currently lack consistent access to food. This shift allows families to select their own groceries to better meet individual household needs.

The Virginia Hunger Survey reported that 70% of regional families with children face food insecurity. Currently, 170 families visit the pantry weekly, representing a 20% increase in local demand over the prior year.

The players

Lion's Share Food Pantry

This Roanoke-based organization provides food assistance to local families through a client-choice distribution model.

The details

Clients now visit a facility modeled after a classroom where they can select goods from shelves and refrigerators. Produce is obtained through a combination of community gardens and a local vendor supported by grant funding.

September 2026: The Virginia Hunger Survey released findings on state food insecurity.
2023: The pantry completed its transition to a client-choice model.
Weekly: Pantry operations occur on Monday evenings and Friday mornings.

Culture Shift

This move toward client-choice models reflects a broader societal shift in charitable food distribution away from pre-packed bags toward dignity-based, personalized shopping experiences. It aligns with data from the Virginia Hunger Survey identifying high regional food insecurity rates.

Families facing food insecurity can access fresh produce and pantry staples during Monday evening or Friday morning distribution hours. The new client-choice model allows shoppers to select items tailored to their specific dietary requirements and household preferences.

The takeaway

The move to client-choice models represents a significant change in how local food banks manage rising demand. Residents can best support these efforts by donating to pantries that prioritize sourcing fresh produce from community partners.