Food shelters in the Twin Cities are facing real challenges. Visitations have plummeted, especially during Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations.
For over ten years, Twin Cities Food Justice has worked diligently, packing food for schools and hunger-relief groups. They focus on helping families who are struggling to find their next meal. “We’re filling a gap where there is a gap in the food chain,” co-founder Hannah Volkman says.
However, as ICE has increased its presence, fewer people are turning to these food resources. According to Hill, the number of visitors dropped by 50 to 80 percent right after ICE operations began. The Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church saw an even steeper decline of 84%. “People are definitely still afraid to come out,” food shelf coordinator Shonda Allen reported.
Despite this drop in visitors, both organizations remain committed to their mission. They continue to provide fresh fruits, vegetables, canned goods, diapers, and toiletries. “This is what we do,” Allen affirmed. “We make sure people have what they need.”
Recent studies underscore the growing food insecurity in the U.S., with reports indicating that nearly 37 million Americans faced hunger in 2020, a stark rise during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of those affected are families with immigrant backgrounds who may now be too fearful to seek help.
Social media trends also reflect public concern. Hashtags like #FoodInsecurity and #ICEImpact have gained traction, suggesting a growing awareness of the problem. Conversations around these topics are sparking debates on how local communities can provide support without fear of immigration repercussions.
The hope is for a time when every family can access help without fear. Investing in community awareness and advocacy may help to rebuild trust and encourage those in need to seek the resources available to them.
For more insight into food insecurity and its impact, you can explore resources from Feeding America.
Source link
Food Insecurity,Food Shelf,ICE,immigration Enforcement
