The Kelly Center for Hunger Relief recently shared some eye-opening facts with the El Paso City Council. In El Paso, 35% of residents struggle with food insecurity—more than double the national average of 13.5% reported by the USDA in 2023. This troubling statistic comes from a study at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and shows that food insecurity is costing El Paso County about $745 million.
Tom Fullerton, an economics professor at UTEP, pointed out that poverty is a significant factor behind this issue. He explained that many people in the area have low incomes, making it hard for them to consistently access proper nutrition. El Paso and nearby Las Cruces have some of the lowest median household incomes in the country.
The study revealed that over 300,000 individuals in El Paso County faced food insecurity this year. Fullerton stressed the need to connect national data with local realities to understand better the unique challenges facing the community.
Reactions from residents vary. One person said, “We have a lot of resources for food, and I don’t think there’s a problem.” Another resident voiced a different view, emphasizing that everyone deserves equal access to basic needs.
This topic isn’t just local; food insecurity is a growing issue nationwide. According to a recent report by Feeding America, 1 in 8 Americans experienced food insecurity in 2021. This highlights the need for awareness and action across all communities.
Overall, discussing food insecurity is crucial. Understanding its local impact and listening to community voices can lead to better solutions for everyone.
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