Tucson, Arizona, is dealing with a rise in food prices, a trend felt nationwide. According to the latest Consumer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices climbed by 0.7% in December alone. Over the year, they surged by 3.1%.
This higher cost of living has led to an increase in demand at the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona. Sio Castillo, the Chief Development Officer, shared that they’re seeing many new faces seeking help. “We’re still experiencing this trend going into January,” Castillo noted. Many of these newcomers have never visited a food bank before.
To put it in perspective, the food bank distributed nearly 38 million pounds of food in 2025, which is three million more than the previous year. This increase aligns closely with the rising prices seen in grocery stores.
Inflation doesn’t just affect consumers; it also impacts food banks. “We’re paying more for everything,” Castillo said, discussing freight costs and other expenses. Even though the food bank can purchase food at surplus prices, rising costs challenge their operations.
Local residents are feeling the pinch as well. Martin Koch, a Tucson resident for over 30 years, shops frequently in his neighborhood, noticing the steady rise in prices. “It keeps going up and up,” he expressed, worrying about families struggling to make ends meet. With seven children, he emphasized, “I don’t know how families with fewer kids manage.”
Amid these challenges, the food bank is actively seeking volunteers and donations. Castillo adds, “It’s rewarding to know we’re helping out in a significant way.”
If you or someone you know needs assistance, consider using the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona’s Find Food tool to locate nearby support.
As food prices continue to rise, the impacts stretch beyond individual households. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center highlighted that 63% of Americans are worried about rising food costs. With the ongoing economic challenges, community support becomes more crucial than ever.
Source link
food bank,community food bank,tucson,southern arizona,community food bank of southern arizona,cpi report,consumer price index,food prices,food costs,rising food prices,groceries,grocery prices,Paris Fransway
