Despite signs of economic recovery, record numbers of families in Washington and across America are relying on food assistance.

In fact, one in eight Americans will receive help this year from local food banks. And among the most needed items are sources of high quality protein.

Washington’s own Stiebrs Farms donated more than 8,000 eggs to the Auburn Food Bank, Hoquiam Food Bank, White Center Food Bank and UCBO Yelm Community Services this week to help families struggling with food insecurity.

Stiebrs Farms’ efforts are part of a national effort, organized by the United Egg Producers. For the fifth consecutive spring, America’s egg farmers are giving the Easter Bunny and families in need, a helping hand by donating nearly 10 million fresh eggs. That brings the number of eggs farmers have contributed since 2008 to 60 million — equaling nearly 5 million dozen.

“Stiebrs Farms is a third generation family farm, and we are proud to be partnering with the local Washington food banks and assistance organizations to provide much-needed protein to the most needy in our community, especially during the Easter holiday season,” said Dianna Stiebrs of Stiebrs Farms.

For food banks across America, high quality sources of protein, such as eggs, are especially needed and valued. According to the USDA, one large egg delivers six grams of protein, along with 13 essential nutrients, including choline, folate, iron and zinc. After a review of the nutrient composition of standard large eggs last year, USDA concluded that the average amount of cholesterol was 14 percent lower, and vitamin D content was 64 percent higher, than previously measured.

“If you’ve ever met an egg farmer, you know just how incredibly generous and giving these men and women are,” said Gene Gregory, president of United Egg Producers. “All year long, but especially at Easter, they proudly do what they can to support the communities in which they live and work.”