HUDSON, Fla. — Going in and out of the former First Baptist Church of Hudson building off Old Dixie Highway, a steady stream of people visited the food pantry Wednesday.

"Have a good weekend, stay out of the storm," said a volunteer to Teresa Prowell.

Prowell comes to the food pantry to receive a little extra help with groceries and daily supplies. With Hurricane Helene quickly approaching, these food items will be essential, especially if the power goes out for any extended amount of time.

“To make sure I have food and water in case we actually get hit hard," said Prowell. "Some days life has gotten hard. Prices have gone up."

She helped load up her car with assistance from a volunteer.

“Water, drinks, canned goods, you know, tuna, stuff like that that you don't have to cook. In case the electric goes out," said Prowell.

On a normal Wednesday, the church officials say they usually help around 200 people. With the storm closing in, they said those numbers are slightly down, but the need remains high.

“It is going to be a rough 48 hours, and our pastor will probably open the doors of the other church if necessary," said Dave Bryant, a retired pastor at First Baptist Church of Hudson.

Bryan said they will make sure each person is taken care of before the end of the day.

"We love doing it," he said. "Sometimes we go home Wednesdays ready to collapse, but we're happy and we see happy faces. We get a lot of hugs. We got a lot of thank yous. And so it's worth it."

He said he feels blessed to help.

For Prowell, she said having this bit of help alleviate a lot of worry. Her mind is on her home — wondering if it will hold up against the wind, rain and storm surge.

“Just afraid of losing sentimental things, you know?" she said. "And my home needs a lot of work, so hoping my roof stays on."