BOSTON -- The Greater Boston Food Bank kicked off its annual turkey drive on Thursday.

In 2008, the Food Bank distributed 38,000 turkeys. The Food Bank hopes to give out 10,000 more turkeys this year.

"When you think of those who had very little to start with, they are in a worse position than others," said Catherine D'Amato, the president and CEO of the Greater Boston Food Bank.

The demand at local food banks is up 14 percent versus the same time last year. The price of turkey is down 28 percent this year.

"The food banks right now are really under a lot of pressure because a lot of people are losing their jobs and need the contributions they get for their families," Mayor Tom Menino said.

Merrill Falk said he serves about 200 elderly and working poor at the Hebron Pantry in Attleboro.

"With all the food that we do have, it is like, why is everybody going hungry or going without?" he said.

The Food Bank said a $12 donation can provide a 12- to 14-pound turkey to a family in need.

Greater Boston Food Bank Turkey Drive