MANCHESTER, N.H. — New Hampshire Food Bank officials say they distributed a record 11 million pounds of food in 2014.

Officials say that represents a 29 percent increase over 2013 and translates into more than 9 million meals.

The New Hampshire Food Bank provides food and other resources to more than 400 food pantries, soup kitchens, children’s and senior’s programs and other hunger relief partner agencies throughout the state.

“We are so grateful to have had the ability to reach such a milestone,” said Mel Gosselin, NH Food Bank Executive Director. “All that participated, – whether donor, volunteer, staff, or advocate – should be proud knowing the impact you’ve had on the thousands of New Hampshire Food Bank clients that were able to eat because of you.”

Food bank officials say the increased distribution was needed to meet an increase in the number of people – one in nine men, women and children – who don’t know when or where their next meal will come from.

“Even with this significant increase in distribution and other milestones, an estimated 24 million meals are still missing for our neighbors in need in New Hampshire. Our work to support those in need continues,” said Gosselin.

Also in 2014, the food bank celebrated its 30th year of operation and became one of only 10 food banks in the country to secure an AIB International certification for food safety.