Crucial DC resources on edge while waiting for final budget decision

WASHINGTON (7News) — Amid widespread layoffs and rising living costs, Martha's Table, a nonprofit organization providing essential services such as education, health services, and free groceries, is witnessing a significant increase in demand.

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The organization, which relies on over $7 million annually in federal and state funding, faces challenges due to the current budget crisis.

Mei Powers from Martha's Table highlighted the severity of the situation:

Families are struggling.

In just one month, the organization saw more than 3,000 new individuals seeking assistance and expects this number to continue to rise. Powers noted that the organization used to serve about 200 people daily for free groceries but now sees between 500 to 700 people each day.

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Powers warned that the increased need is an early indicator of future challenges as savings and severances from mass layoffs diminish. The funds supporting the food market are at risk, with donations to nonprofits down by 22 percent and the district's budget crisis potentially leaving families without food.

Martha's Table has already made program cuts to allocate an additional $30,000 for food. Since January, over 3,000 new individuals have sought free resources, including veteran Marine Myron Harley.

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Harley shared his experience, saying, "As a service member, we are equipped to be resourceful at any means necessary," after medical expenses and living costs forced him to seek help.

More than 7,000 people have turned to Martha's Table for food and other resources, and the organization anticipates this number will grow throughout the year.

Martha's Table is closely monitoring developments with Washington, D.C.'s budget, as it could impact their ability to continue providing free groceries during the week.