Demand to use Largs Food Bank has doubled since the pandemic and they are now expanding to help more residents on low income, the organisation says.
More residents are needing support even with employment as rising bills continue to hit hard.
The volunteer-run food bank has now changed its services to include earlier opening times and a larder for those on low income.
Volunteer Wendy Low Thomson said: "People were on reduced wages or having to go on to benefits if they had lost their job during the pandemic.
"Back then we were providing provisions for 18-20 families a week but nowadays due to the cost-of-living crisis, it is between 38-40 families a week.
"We have changed the format of the food bank so that it also includes a larder.
"Anyone with a low income can come and pay £4 each time they visit and they can select their own food, rather than a pre-packed bag which we provide for people who are on benefits.
"Now people can pay a small charge and pick their own shopping."
The food bank is open every Thursday at Clark Memorial Church with an earlier start time of 11.30am until 4pm.
Wendy said: "It has been very difficult for people who can't afford to pay these extortionate heating bills.
"We have been independently-run since we were formed and very much rely on local donations, and through the new larder option, we are reaching people we weren't before."
Wendy pointed out that demand for the food bank has gone up and said: "We are getting more requests for ready-made meals as people can't afford to put on their gas and electric cookers.
"More ready made meals and snacks are easy to prepare without putting on the cooker."
"The food bank has been such an important asset to the town and the new format launched a few weeks ago and also provides support."
Wendy pointed out that if any elderly people were struggling to make it to the food bank they would be happy to do deliveries by phoning 07482 508875 or contacting their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/378509985634984.
The Largs Food Bank covers Largs, Fairlie, Skelmorlie and Cumbrae. For Cumbrae there is sister food bank in Millport at https://www.facebook.com/MillportFoodbank.
Food is given out using a voucher system and vouchers can be obtained from Brooksby.
A community food larder is also set to open in Largs Library with a recent request going out for volunteers to get involved.
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