WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and SportsFeeding the Hungry

WATERLOO (WKOW)-- As the economy took a dive, more people lost their jobs. That also meant the demand for food pantries rose as well. One local food pantry saw the increase.

And thanks to the devoted leadership of one couple they were able to meet the need. It makes Dave and Jeanne Zastrow this month's Jefferson Award recipients and 'Someone You Should Know.'

Dave Zastrow helps a first-time pantry recipient pick out items from the Marshall/Waterloo Food Pantry.

"More and more new families are coming to the pantry," said Dave Zastrow. "Some that perhaps moved into the area or have lost a job or have had their hours cut."

Since day one, Dave and his wife Jeanne have coordinated volunteers and donations. The food pantry opened November 1992.

"We'll celebrate our 18th anniversary this November," said Dave.

As with so many other pantries, The need continues to go up. The Marshall/Waterloo Food Pantry saw a 17% increase in 2009.

"We average about 110 families a month that we serve," said Dave. "We gave out over 68,000 pounds of food last year."

While they like to share the spotlight, the food pantry wouldn't be what it is if it weren't for Dave and Jeanne.

They are here every week despite the fact that each month a different volunteer group handles the pantry operations.

"Sometimes the groups have trouble recruiting volunteers so I give them a hand," said Dave. "And, ever Thursday I come in and clean up the place, sweep, mop, take out the garbage."

Jeanne, as Dave puts it, keeps him on task and comes up with new ideas to make the pantry more efficient.

"When we get bulk food, she'll come in and help pack and break things down and put them in zip lock bags," said Dave

"You're just ready to help instead of random acts of kindness we try to make it more purposeful," said Jeanne.

"It's a good feeling especially when a family leaves and say thank you very much," said Dave. "That makes it all worth it."

Click here to learn more about the Waterloo/Marshall Food Pantry.