Working Americans Turn to Food Banks as Fed Inflation Battle Drags On
The ongoing struggle to tame inflation has left millions of working Americans turning to food banks for help. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 37 million Americans rely on food banks to put food on the table, a number that has increased by 15% since 2019.
Food banks across the country are feeling the strain as donations dwindle and demand increases. The Bread for the World Institute estimates that one in five Americans struggles to afford food, with many turning to food banks to make ends meet.
One such individual is 35-year-old single mother, Sarah Jenkins. Despite working two jobs, Sarah struggles to make ends meet, often finding herself with limited funds for groceries. “It’s hard to explain the feeling of having to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table,” Sarah said. “I’m grateful for the food bank, but it’s a constant struggle.”
The rise in food bank use is attributed to a combination of factors, including stagnant wages, increased housing costs, and limited access to healthcare. According to the Economic Policy Institute, real wages have actually decreased by 4.2% since 2009, leaving many Americans with less purchasing power.
In response to the growing need, food banks are adapting to the changing landscape. Many are partnering with local grocery stores to receive donated items, while others are providing more specialized services, such as nutrition counseling and meal delivery.
As the inflation battle continues, food banks remain a vital lifeline for millions of Americans. However, they require continued support to meet the growing demand. As Sarah Jenkins notes, “Food banks are a safety net, but we need a better solution to this problem. People should be able to afford the basic necessities without having to worry about going hungry.”
