High Cost of Food, High Heat and Inflation Concern Food Pantries this Summer
Increased Childcare and Food Costs Expected this Summer
In Bryan, Texas, as we head into the summer months, it typically means increased childcare and food costs, as well as higher utility bills. This year, however, inflation has added to concerns and the Brazos Valley Food Bank is bracing for a challenging season.
“I’m pretty worried about this summer. I don’t always say that, I always say summer is going to be a challenge, but I think I’m really worried about this summer,” shared Theresa Mangapora, Executive Director of the Brazos Valley Food Bank.
The Impact of Inflation on Food Costs
Mangapora states that inflation has hit hard, and food costs are high for everyone, not just for those who are facing hunger. During the pandemic, the government gave aid to food banks and people, but that aid decreased after the pandemic.
The Effect of Decreasing Aid
Government aid such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits went back to normal, there were no more stimulus checks, and then inflation hit. These combined factors, along with higher summer costs, have led food banks into a tough situation.
Challenges Faced by Pantries
The rising food prices and reduced financial assistance have increased worries for food pantries about their ability to provide for those in need. Some even fear they might run out of food. “A lot of them are saying people we haven’t seen in a few years are back again. It is just because those folks get stabilized, then something like this hits them again and it’s just, something has to give,” explains Mangapora.
Community Response to Rising Needs
Despite the increased demand, communities have displayed resilience, with many stepping forward to support local food banks. Several pantries have reported that while the number of households served has doubled in the last year, community support has allowed them to continue meeting these needs.
Future Strategies
To tackle the rising summer costs, several pantries are relying on various strategies including sourcing food from food banks, developing relationships with food providers, and leveraging USDA funding to source low-cost foods.
The Summer Hunger Food Drive
Food drives have also been highlighted as a key tool in addressing the food shortage. Through these drives, pantries can access a variety of nonperishable food items, adding diversity to the meals offered to families in need. Food drives not only bring in essential food staples, but also items that can make meal times more enjoyable for the whole family.
How to Help this Summer
For those who would like to help, Mangapora suggests donating food items or monetary contributions to your local food banks. Another way is to participate in food drives or even organizing one in your local community.