Food Insecurity Rises Nationally as Federal Aid Programs End
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A Federal Reserve Bank of New York survey finds more families are skipping meals and relying on food donations this year than during the peak of pandemic aid in 2020. The end of government relief payments coincides with increased demand at food banks across the country. The Agriculture Department has halted its own research on food insecurity.
Facts First
- 10% of families nationwide reported missing meals due to lack of food in a February survey.
- Nearly 16% of families reported relying on food donations, up from less than 7% among lower-income families in 2020.
- Government relief payments and supplemental unemployment benefits have ended, which were in place during the 2020 survey period.
- Nearly 18% of families now receive SNAP benefits, compared to 10.6% in 2020.
- Food banks are reporting increased demand, with some expanding facilities to accommodate need.
What Happened
A survey released by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found higher levels of food insecurity this year than during the summer of 2020. The survey, conducted in February, found that 10% of families nationwide reported missing meals due to lack of food. Nearly 16% of families nationwide reported relying on food donations. Among families earning less than $50,000 a year, nearly 20% reported being forced to skip meals or go without. This compares to 2020, when 4% of households reported missing meals, and less than 7% of families earning less than $50,000 a year reported missing meals.
Why this Matters to You
If you or someone you know is struggling financially, you may be more likely to face difficult choices about food this year. The end of pandemic-era government aid appears to be a factor, as the safety net has narrowed since 2020. You might see longer lines at local food pantries or hear about their need for more donations. For families with lower incomes, accessing federal food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has become more common, with participation rates nearly doubling since 2020.
What's Next
The increased demand is prompting food banks to adapt. The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama, which serves 12 counties, is moving into a larger building to accommodate the need. The situation may evolve further, as the New York Fed survey was conducted before a recent spike in gasoline prices, which could put additional strain on household budgets. The Agriculture Department, which oversees SNAP, halted its own research on food insecurity last year, which could affect future policy decisions.