LISBON — Lynn Holshue said the weekly food distributions hosted by the First United Methodist Church attracted about 40 people on average in the days before the COVID-19 virus.

But things have changed in a major way since the government response to the pandemic idled millions of workers in Ohio and around the country, resulting in record claims for unemployment. Holshue estimated the church food pantry is now serving three times as many individuals and families.

“A normal food pantry day we had about 40 clients. Now we’re seeing 90 vehicles or more, and many of them are picking up for more than one family,” she said.

Holshue, who is chairwoman of the church board that oversees the food pantry program, said probably 60 percent of the people who show up appear to be retirement age, and many are regulars. But since late March, the number of working-age people seeking assistance has increased significantly, and she said that likely may represent those who have lost their jobs and or had their hours cut.

“I’m pretty sure most of the new ones we’re getting, that’s what’s going on,” Holshue said.

As a matter of policy, they do not ask the people who show up for any personal information, other than their name and address. The information is passed along to the Second Harvest Food Bank for use in continuing to seek federal and state assistance.

“That’s none of our business. We’re just here to serve,” Holshue said.

Most of the dry goods, produce and some personal hygiene products come from Second Harvest, which serves the Mahoning Valley. Holshue said they receive 150 to 200 cases of food per week, which are packed into individual boxes by her family and the Ohio National Guard. This is enough for 100 families.

She said Progressive Dairy in Columbiana has donated 200 gallons of milk for the past two distributions, and Ohio Pet in Lisbon has donated 200 bags of cat and dog food as well.

Local businesses have contributed in other ways by providing lunches for those helping with the distribution.

Church members have chipped in too, contributing canned goods, toilet paper and cereal. Holshue said they have also received $5,000 in donations from the community used to purchase other products.

Due to the increase in vehicles showing up for the Thursday distribution, Holshue asks the public wait until 9 a.m. People have been arriving at the church parking lot as early at 6:30 a.m. for the distribution, which begins at 10 a.m.