There are around 82,000 people on food stamps in Lane County. The Department of Human Services says around15% are elderly or disabled.

During the first nine days of the month, Oregon Trail Cards are re-loaded with SNAP benefits. Winco representative Mike Reed says Winco stores in Oregon see an increase in sales of up to 45 percent during the first week of the month.

As a former social worker, Maria Kurtenbach says she never thought she'd rely on food pantries and food stamps to help feed herself and her daughter.

Can you survive on $31.50 for food for the entire week? That's the average food stamp benefit per person in the United State. KVAL's Lauren Lee is doing just that and taking the Food Stamp Challenge.

Participants in the National Food Stamp Challenge November 11-17 will spend $31.50 for all of their food for the entire week, which is the average food stamp benefit for individuals.