The Merrimack Valley Food Bank is getting some help from a foundation in providing food to needy families during COVID-19.

The Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation recently awarded the Lowell-based food bank $50,000 to support its mission of fighting hunger in the Greater Merrimack Valley. The grant is part of ongoing financial support the foundation is providing to local organizations to assist people in need during the pandemic.

Officials said area demand for food aid has increased significantly since the pandemic began. The food bank supplies nearly 69,000 people monthly in Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire through direct service programs and a network of partner food pantries, meal programs, schools, and senior centers.