RALEIGH -- More North Carolinians will be turning to food banks across the state to provide meals for their families this holiday season. Cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program went into affect Friday after a 2009 boost to the program expired.

Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina spokesperson Jennifer Caslin is anticipating larger crowds over the holidays

"We were already seeing in July and August a 12% increase in those that we serve. We can't really point to one reason why that was, but the fact that we were already seeing an increase, and now with these cuts, means we may see a lot more need this holiday season."

For more information or to donate visit foodbankcenc.org.