In the face of rising food insecurity, Iowa is witnessing a troubling trend. Many people in all 99 counties struggle to put food on the table. This issue might seem hidden, but it affects your neighbors and community in ways you might not see.
September is Hunger Action Month, highlighting the urgency of this crisis. Annette Hacker, the Chief Communications and Strategy Officer at the Food Bank of Iowa, emphasizes that food insecurity is an issue everywhere, even when it’s not immediately visible.
Since 2022, food insecurity has surged as pandemic-era benefits ended. The recent budget reconciliation bill, the most significant cut to food aid in U.S. history, has further exacerbated the problem. Hacker explains that without additional help, food banks will likely see longer lines and more demand.
According to recent projections, about 6 billion meals could be lost due to cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). While organizations like Feeding America strive to fill the gap, they simply can’t match the impact of SNAP. For every meal they provide, SNAP can offer about nine. The support from the USDA has also dropped significantly, making it more challenging for food banks to meet the increasing needs.
Despite the challenging landscape, there are avenues for action. Monetary donations to food banks can create a more significant impact than in-kind donations. Food banks are skilled at stretching dollars to maximize resources, making financial support crucial in these tough times.
To learn more about supporting your local food bank or seeking assistance, visit Food Bank of Iowa.
