Hunger on the Rise in Oregon: A Community Response
In Oregon, hunger is a significant issue. One in seven adults and one in six kids are struggling to find enough food, according to the Oregon Food Bank. Local food pantries are feeling the strain, often facing empty shelves.
Esther’s Pantry in Milwaukie opens its doors four days a week, serving around 40 people daily. Many arrive hours early. “We have people lining up as early as 8 a.m.,” says Brent Blackwell, the pantry manager. The emotional toll of waiting for food is evident, but many believe it’s worth the wait.
Originally, Esther’s Pantry focused on helping those living with HIV. Six years ago, they expanded their services to anyone in need due to the growing demand in the community. Now, they see a surge of visitors similar to what was experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have many repeat visitors,” Blackwell explains. “People who normally didn’t need help are returning because basic costs have gone up.” This trend reflects a national concern, where inflation and rising living costs are pushing more families to seek assistance.
The Oregon Food Bank has reported that they, too, can’t keep up with the demand. The inventory of available food is low. “Donations have plummeted,” Blackwell notes, highlighting that the supply chain issues and reduced donations are affecting their ability to serve the community effectively.
Demand spiked dramatically last fall when the Trump administration paused SNAP benefits. Even after reactivating this assistance, the need for food hasn’t decreased.
“There was a brief boost in donations when those benefits paused, but that has since disappeared,” Blackwell said. The Oregon Food Bank described the current state of food assistance as “historic,” noting a 51% increase in visits over the last two years.
What can people do? Community support is vital. Local organizations are calling for more donations, both in food and funding, to help meet this overwhelming need. Blackwell says he dreams of a day when he no longer has to manage a food pantry because hunger has been eradicated.
For more information on how to get involved or find help, check out Esther’s Pantry here or locate a nearby Oregon Food Bank pantry here. Together, we can work toward a future without hunger.
