(WENY) -- The Food Bank of the Southern Tier has kicked off their annual virtual turkey drive for the holiday season! Staff with the Food Bank told WENY News that this year, community support is needed more than ever. Jordyn Smith, Annual Fund Manager tells WENY that this year's needs are greater than usual due to the pandemic. They have seen an increase of about 14% for in-demand food resources. Smith said this turkey drive will help provide nutritional meals for those in our community facing food insecurity. 

"Everybody has been hit really hard. The turkey drive helps support families throughout the holidays and it helps provide nutritional meals which we know is something that it is going to be really needed during these difficult times. It's not getting any easier," says Jordyn Smith, Annual Fund Manager, Food Bank of the Southern Tier. 

Tioga Downs Casino Resort is going to match donations dollar for dollar this year, meaning every ten dollars provides 60 meals. If you would like to donate to the turkey drive you can click here.