First Baptist Church of Alabaster is seeking help in restocking its food banks to aid area residents negatively affected by the nation’s economy.

The church is asking Shelby County residents and businesses to donate non-perishable food items and money to the church’s food ministry.

The bank has been depleted over the last few months as families have faced economic hardship, said Michelle Weaver, the church’s community ministries assistant.

“Unemployment levels have been rising so quickly over here that we are having a hard time keeping up with the demand,” Weaver said.

Anyone with food or money donations can either bring their contributions to the food ministry at 903 Third Ave. N.W. in Alabaster, or call the church at 663-3531.