This browser does not support the Video element.
Mile-long line waits for Tarrant Area food distribution
People lined up hours ahead of time, eventually totaling nearly 3,000, to receive donations from Tarrant Area Food Bank for holiday meals.
ARLINGTON, Texas - Cars started lining up before daylight, six hours ahead of the opening of a food distribution event in Arlington.
The line at Globe Life Field showed how great the need is this holiday season.
Arlington food distribution
There were close to 3,000 vehicles that showed up to receive food donations from Tarrant Area Food Bank — an organization dedicated to getting food to the tables of families in need.
The food giveaway lasted until 1 p.m. today.
'Everyone just needs it'
Tarrant Area Food Bank distribution
What they're saying:
"Everyone needs the food. I mean, we are going through a hard time at this moment. Everyone just needs it," said Jesus Rodriquez at the distribution.
The lines began forming before dawn, hours ahead of the event start time at 10 a.m.
"This is especially critical for families with school-age children out on break," said TAFB spokesperson Jared Williams. "We want to make sure all of our families have what they need, especially those facing food insecurities. So we have amazing food here for a nice holiday meal."
The anticipated need among North Texans was confirmed by the turnout. A line at times stretching for over a mile. Recipient Dianna Coleman described what it’s like to buy groceries as of late.
"Terrible. I hate going to the grocery store, because I can’t afford it," Coleman said.
Coleman said the donations will help her family a lot. She is not alone, simply one among thousands with similar thoughts.
"I’m retired and on a fixed income, so that helps a lot," retiree Hanz Meyer said. "I sure appreciate that."
The Source: Information in this article comes from FOX 4 interviews at the distribution event.