Cuts to federal programs since President Trump took office have severely impacted food supplies for organizations like Second Harvest in Lafayette. Despite the reductions, demand for food assistance in Acadiana remains high, especially in rural areas. Paul Scelfo, chief regional officer for Second Harvest, warns that upcoming cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) could make things worse.
In the past, Second Harvest has experienced a 30% drop in food availability, translating to a loss of four to five million pounds over a year. These cuts stem from approximately $1 billion slashed from USDA programs that had supported local food banks, impacting their ability to source from small and medium farms.
This year, Louisiana food banks received around $13 million for programs that assist local farmers. However, the financial squeeze puts immense pressure on the ability to serve the community. In 2023, 13.5% of U.S. households faced food insecurity, a number that climbs to 15.4% in rural areas. Rural counties, while accounting for 63% of the U.S., represent 89% of the most food-insecure counties. In Lafayette Parish alone, 16.1% of the population is food insecure, with nearby Evangeline Parish reaching over 20.7%.
Second Harvest plays a crucial role in feeding local youth. Last school year, about 62% of Louisiana students received free or reduced lunches. Yet, during the summer, only 8% had access to meals. This gap highlights the ongoing need to address food insecurity, especially in off-school months.
Looking ahead, Scelfo emphasizes the importance of community support and efficient management. The organization is committed to maintaining its services, but the sustainability of those efforts will greatly depend on future funding and community involvement.
Source link