OMAHA, Neb. (AP) – Food banks serving eastern Nebraska and western Iowa are in danger of closing their doors as ever-increasing demand leaves their shelves bare. The Food Bank for the Heartland, which serves 93 counties in the region, has been hurt by high demand, a sour economy and federal budget cuts. Another program, Angel Food Ministries which sells food at a slashed prices, has suspended orders for the rest of September.

Omaha Mayor Jim Suttle says there is a plan in place to increase donations and financial help. City libraries and ministry groups are accepting food donations to help stock the shelves, and food banks are also accepting money. Donations can be made online at www.togetheromaha.org and www.foodbankheartland.org.