Food banks in critical states such as Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin are reporting record demand as the rising costs of rent, food and utilities make it difficult for many families to stay afloat. Leaders from food assistance organizations are calling it a “hunger crisis” and warn that the need is quickly outpacing available resources.
According to Joe Arthur, Executive Director of the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, demand has increased by more than 50% since 2021. “The need we’re seeing is as high as it was at the pandemic’s peak,” Arthur noted, adding that fewer resources are available to address today’s demand.
NBC report: Swing state food banks unable to meet demands of hungry clients – American Thinker https://t.co/4CrSH5CwVA
— Furlicity (@Furlicity) October 29, 2024
Food assistance programs in diverse areas — from Michigan’s rural towns to Wisconsin’s suburbs — are seeing an influx of people who have never sought help before. Feeding America West Michigan’s president Ken Estelle reported unprecedented need. “We have never seen this level in the 43 years we have been serving this community,” Estelle explained, as his organization grapples with rising demand.
Rising prices nationwide are pushing more households into hardship. National data shows that since 2021, grocery prices have climbed by 21.6%, electricity costs by 28% and rent by 23%, squeezing family budgets. As savings dwindle and credit card debt rises, more families are turning to food banks for help.
Critics, including former President Donald Trump, have drawn attention to the current administration’s handling of the economy, noting the higher costs for basic items like eggs, coffee and chicken. In a recent poll by RMG Research, 57% of voters indicated they feel worse off than four years ago, highlighting dissatisfaction over inflation and economic challenges.
With the demand for food assistance climbing, food bank officials warn that additional support may be essential to keep up with the growing need across these key states.
