With demand on the rise at food banks across the country, one local food bank could use all the help it can get.

The Capital Area Food Bank recently acquired two Austin-area food pantries that faced closure due to lack of volunteer and financial support.

Mayor Lee Leffingwell and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn were among those asking local companies and organizations to challenge their employees to volunteer their time during the holiday season.

"We certainly have not escaped unscathed from the downturn of the economy, so it's very important for Central Texas to dig deep and give, because our support of the Capital Area Food Bank is needed now more than it ever has been," Leffingwell said.

In its 28th year of service, the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas provides food and grocery products to more than 350 agencies in 21 Central Texas counties.

The food bank distributed more than 17 million pounds of food last year.

To find out how to help, visit AustinFoodBank.org.