Rising Costs Force Massachusetts Family to Cut Back on Driving and Diet
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A Massachusetts program director supporting special needs families is reducing essential driving and changing her household's diet due to soaring gasoline and food costs. Dalene Basden, who also volunteers at a soup kitchen, now spends over $600 monthly on gas, up from $300-$400, and has switched to primarily chicken as beef prices rise. This comes as a new poll indicates 80% of Americans report struggling to make ends meet.
Facts First
- Gasoline costs for Dalene Basden's household have risen to over $600 per month from a previous $300-$400.
- Basden has reduced her driving to save money, including skipping trips to drive her adult son with disabilities.
- The household diet has shifted to primarily chicken because beef has become too expensive compared to six months ago.
- Basden works as a program director in Lynn, Massachusetts, supporting families with special needs children.
- A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll finds 8 out of 10 Americans say they are struggling to make ends meet.
What Happened
Dalene Basden is making significant cuts to her family's budget as her household's monthly gasoline costs have increased from a combined $300-$400 to over $600. To manage this, Basden has recently reduced her driving and changed her household's diet to primarily chicken because beef has become too expensive. A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll indicates that 8 out of 10 Americans say they are struggling to make ends meet.
Why this Matters to You
If you are feeling the pinch from higher prices for gas and groceries, you are not alone. The financial pressure described by Basden appears to reflect a broader national trend, where a large majority of Americans report similar struggles. For families, especially those with fixed incomes or caring for dependents, these rising costs may force difficult choices between essential travel, nutritious food, and other household needs.
What's Next
Basden's necessary medical trips may further strain the family's transportation budget. Her continued work and volunteer efforts, while financially pressured, suggest she will likely maintain her support for her community. The broader economic pressures highlighted by the poll may continue to influence household spending and policy discussions.