The Bridgeport Rescue Mission says a lack of food donations could be the reason why it tables its COVID-19 food delivery service to thousands in need.

Officials say a critical shortage of food is threatening a resource that thousands of people in Bridgeport and even Stamford rely on.

The nonprofit started a COVID-19 food delivery service early in the pandemic, and has brought food right to the front doors of people like 64-year-old Sharron Guillemette, of Stamford, who's come to rely upon the resource as her primary source of food.

Officials at the Rescue Mission say the program is now the victim of its own success, unable to keep up with the skyrocketing demand.

They say due to the crisis, donations have dropped off dramatically.

If the program slashes services, Guillemette says she has no idea where she would turn for help.

Frank Williams, the head of the nonprofit, is asking for the public's help to avoid slashing services.

"COVID-19 has changed the world, but it has not changed the mission's commitment to our vulnerable neighbors," said Williams.

Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim says the city is partnering with the Bridgeport Rescue Mission in asking for the public's help.