BENTON CITY-- Come rain, snow or wind, weather can't stop Sharon Haronett, who spends 12 hours a day delivering food to the doorsteps of those who cant' get it themselves.

"They just appreciate having someone come in and talk with them, just knowing that somebody out there cares about them," said Haronett.

"It is absolutely phenomenal," said disabled senior Doug Vawter, who sees her twice a month. "When she comes in, brings stuff in, I just almost want to cry, it helps so much."

Vawter's wife Joann, can still drive, but the couple can't afford the gas and maintenance required for grocery shopping trips into town.

"Every time we go to the store, I'm sure you've noticed the prices just keep going up and up and up, so to be blessed with the canned food and everything is just a wonderful blessing," said Joann Vawter.

But blessings at the doorstep aren't enough anymore.

The number of people who need help from Benton City's food bank has overwhelmed the tiny facility, and after decades of pushing for it, management will break ground on a new and improved building next week.

The bigger food bank will be a welcome change for the volunteers who make deliveries to those unable to pick up their food at the current location.

Food Banks in Tri-Cities saw a tremendous increase in clients last year, when gas prices hit hard. Most recently, an influx of laid off workers have been coming through the doors. The food banks in Benton City, Richland and Kennewick had 15 percent more visitors than last year.

Food Bank Director Art King says the Kennewick Food Bank is seeing the biggest increase in customers at the moment, with 13 new visitors in one day.

"Now it's getting back like it was in the 30's," said Jerry Conner, another disabled senior who has food delivered. "I just can't believe that even in this area, where Hanford is, that there's so much unemployment."

The current Benton City facility has no room for handicapped access, and the lines of recipients are forced to wait outside int eh cold, and then carry the boxes to their cars.

"Some of them have little babies that are with them and you just feel so sorry for them," said Haronett.

[CG :Lower 3rd\1.36/1.42\Virginia Hughes\HAS FOOD DELIVERED]

Most of the people who receive Harnonett's delivery food boxes are elderly and alone, people who would otherwise go without food.

"A lot of times I'd sit here without anything," said Virginia Hughes, sitting on her couch with only her cat for company.

All the food banks depend on donations, and the need is greater than ever. If you are interested in donating, or if you need assistance, call (509) 943-2795.