NEW IBERIA, La. (KLFY) -- With SNAP benefits interrupted for some Louisiana families, The Community Church in New Iberia is stepping up to meet the need.

Volunteers there are preparing to serve more than 100 families this Thanksgiving, more than double what they helped last year.

Pastor Grace LeBlanc says the increase in need has been clear.

“We’ve definitely seen an uptick in requests,” she said. “People call asking when they can come, or if they can get food during the week. It really shows that there is food insecurity right here in our parish.”

LeBlanc says the church’s Thanksgiving Food Drive will take place Nov. 22 at 9 a.m., offering full meal bags with turkey or ham, canned goods, rice, dressing and pantry staples.

“With the SNAP benefits situation, it’s been tough on families,” she said. “We just want people to have everything they need when their kids are home for Thanksgiving.”

Alongside the food drive, church member Megan Stinson is bringing a special touch — dessert bags filled with cake mixes, icing and sprinkles for families to make together.

“I just kept feeling a pull to make a difference,” LeBlanc said. “Even if they didn’t have a full Thanksgiving meal, they can still have a dessert, you know, and just make it a little fun.”

Stinson said the idea came from her love of baking and family traditions.

“Everybody needs a little celebration, you know? Even if it’s just dessert after dinner it brings families together, and that’s what it’s all about,” said Stinson.

Anyone looking to contribute can donate through Megan Stinson’s Amazon Wishlist or by calling The Community Church at (337) 380-3191 for more information.

The event is open to the public, no ID or verification required, and families will also have access to the church’s free community closet during the drive.

LeBlanc says the mission is simple: to love and serve.

“The best thing you can do for somebody isn’t just tell them you love them, it’s to show them that you do," said LeBlanc.

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