Report: Need still high for hunger-related help

While the state's economy is improving, the need for hunger-related help remains high, a new report shows.

More than 8,500 people per day used Minnesota food shelves in 2012, up nearly 60 percent since 2007, according to Hunger Solutions Minnesota . Families with children accounted for more than 1.2 million food shelf visits last year.

The data show those hit hard by the recession haven't yet recovered, said Colleen Moriarty, the group's executive director.

"We know that most people who are re-employed after losing their job are usually re-employed at a job that pays less," she said. "It takes at least 18 to 24 months for people to get back on their feet after they get employed. I think the road to full recovery is slower and more measured, and I think we'll see that remain the case for at least the next two years."

The need is showing some signs of leveling off, Moriarty added.