Nashville, Tenn. — As consumer spending continues to decline, food banks across the country are feeling the strain. One such food pantry, Jake’s Blessing Box in Watertown, is caught in the middle of a growing demand for assistance and a reduction in donations.
According to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, consumer spending dropped in January 2025, a trend that has left many in need of basic necessities. At the same time, donations to charitable organizations, including food banks, have also decreased, making it increasingly difficult for pantries to keep up with the rising need.
Diane Huan, the organizer of Jake’s Blessing Box, which operates out of the Watertown Church of God of Prophecy on South Pearl Avenue, says the number of people seeking help has surged. “It seems like there are always needs that are being filled, but they’re not being filled as quickly as they were before,” Huan said.
Since opening in April 2024, Jake’s Blessing Box has served approximately 500 individuals per month. Huan, who also serves as the pastor’s wife, noted that the pantry has become an essential resource for local residents, many of whom have reached out for help due to the economic strain. “Being right here off the highway, more and more people have come to us and said, ‘Could you just help with groceries a little bit?’” she explained.
Huan attributes the decline in donations to a challenging economy, which has also been reflected in consumer spending data. According to recent Census data, retail and food service sales have increased only by 0.2% since January 2025, a sign that many Americans are tightening their belts.
The rising costs of living, particularly in housing and groceries, have put a strain on families, leaving many at the end of the month with insufficient funds for food. “With the cost of rent being so high, and the cost of groceries being so high, at the end of the month, they’re at the end of the paycheck and they don’t have enough to feed their families,” Huan said.
Despite the challenges, Huan remains steadfast in her mission. “We’re doing the Lord’s work, and we’re proud of that. We’re here to help families in need,” she said.
Jake’s Blessing Box is open every day from sunrise until sunset, providing food assistance to those in the Watertown area. Huan is hopeful that, despite the difficulties, the community will continue to support the pantry, ensuring that those in need can rely on it during these tough economic times.
