WEST POINT, Miss. (WTVA) - Staff from one local food pantry said the demand to feed those in need is consistently growing during the coronavirus pandemic. However, the spirit of giving is also.

Staff at the Homestead Food Pantry in West Point distribute food on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

The pantry’s president Jane Scott said since the start of the pandemic, the West Point community has been generous with donations.

"Between our grant and monetary donations, we have today a brand-new commercial freezer," she said.

Lewise Jackson, who handles applications for new and returning clients, said donations are not the only thing growing.

"We do have new clients, especially during the pandemic," Jackson said.

The donations are important because of the number of people the food pantry currently serves, she added.

"Probably around 480 to 500 families,” Jackson said. “Now that's not people, that's families that we have certified for our food pantry."

However, because of virus concerns, the pantry’s distribution process is different. Staff members wear masks. Hand sanitizing liquid is also available. And only two people are allowed inside the pantry at one time.

Scott said each person receives food through a window and exits through the side door.

Although the process is different now, the community is understanding, Jackson added.

"I have someone tell me almost every week, they don't know what they would do if they did not have this food from the food pantry."

New applicants can come on Mondays from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. to fill out applications. Applicants need a driver's license and will need to provide a yearly income.