ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – You can help fight food insecurity by shopping for groceries.

The 32nd annual Check Out Hunger Campaign is underway at local Wegmans stores.

Shoppers can donate up to $5 while paying at the register, and every dollar provides three meals for local families in need through the Food Bank of the Southern Tier.

“With the cost of living rising, more families are turning to food pantries for help,” said President and CEO of the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, Mark Bordeau. “Check Out Hunger is a simple, powerful way to make sure our neighbors have the food they need. Every dollar truly makes a difference.”

Data shows hunger risk is at its highest rate in over 10 years, with 1 in 7 individuals in the Southern Tier at risk, including 1 in 5 children.

Wegmans stores in Ithaca, Elmira, Corning, Johnson City, and Hornell are participating. The campaign runs through November 29.

Click here to learn more about the Food Bank of the Southern Tier or make a donation.