Eileen Spring, the CEO of Food Gatherers in Ann Arbor, recently discussed the significant impact of federal funding cuts on the organization’s efforts to combat hunger. Food Gatherers plays a crucial role in providing food assistance in Washtenaw County, with nearly 30% of its food supply coming from government programs. However, recently announced cuts mean a reduction of 15% in food they’ve relied on from the USDA, a shock that caught many off guard.
Eileen emphasized that the need for food assistance has remained high, especially since the pandemic. Even as unemployment rates are low, rising living costs make it challenging for many families to afford food. The cuts arrive at a time when inflation is pushing prices higher, affecting basic items like eggs and dairy. Nationally, surveys indicate that food banks are reporting increasing demand, and many are also struggling to maintain their supply due to similar federal reductions.
Historically, funding through the Temporary Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) has helped food banks manage increased demand during tough times. Eileen noted that this source has been a stable support, but now, that reliability is threatened. As of now, Food Gatherers has had to utilize its reserves to compensate for the loss, but this isn’t sustainable in the long run.
Interestingly, a survey from Feeding America recently revealed that nearly 80% of food banks across the U.S. saw increased requests for assistance in the past year. This statistic emphasizes the growing trend of food insecurity affecting communities nationwide, making organizations like Food Gatherers more vital than ever.
To fill the funding gap, Food Gatherers plans to reach out for support from local and state governments, as well as private donations. Eileen explained that further cuts, such as those proposed to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), could have devastating impacts. For each meal food banks provide, SNAP typically supports nine. This highlights how intertwined public assistance programs and local food banks are in the fight against hunger.
Eileen remains hopeful about the future, urging community members to stay informed and advocate for policies that support food security. The collaborative efforts between Food Gatherers and its partners, alongside community support, remain key to overcoming these challenges.
For more information on how to contribute, you can check their official site: Food Gatherers.
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