Mason City, IA- Some people across our area say they are going without food because of economic conditions.  High gas, heating and food costs are taking a serious toll in north Iowa and southern Minnesota. The Salvation Army in Austin says it's serving more people now than ever before. The number of people using the food shelf nearly doubled since this time last year. The community kitchen of north Iowa served 25% more people this February than a year ago. People at those organizations say those are very significant numbers.

Gloria Blicher works the early morning shift at her full time job in Mason City. However, she says her paycheck isn't enough recently.

Twice a week Gloria Blicher is treated to a full course meal at the community kitchen of north Iowa.

"Right now I'm struggling. I'm living day by day," said Blicher.

A single adult, Blicher makes enough money to not qualify for welfare. However, since the increase of gas, and heating costs she doesn't make enough money to pay for a regular meal.

"I can't eat, I don't have money to buy food with," said Blicher.

Adding an extra blow is the fact grocery stores across the area have increased prices. Dugan's Supermarket owner Tony Laudner says they've had no choice. He's paying the warehouse he buys from 5% more on nearly everything because of diesel prices.

"As much as we try to keep our prices low as possible, we still had to raise our prices some," said Laudner.

Blicher says everywhere she looks it seems costs are going up, and her paycheck is staying the same. For many at the food kitchen, it’s the only food they'll eat in a day. Director Sandy Funk says they feed as many as 300 people a day, and the number is growing.

"Obviously there's a real need, and we're filling a void for many people," said Funk.

Now Blicher has to find out where she's going to find the money to pay for her next meal.

"I'm in a rut right now. I can't get myself out," said Blicher.