Not Just the Unemployed – Even the Underemployed Are Now Struggling
Rising Living Costs and Trump’s Funding Cuts Deepen Crisis
Food banks across the United States are witnessing long lines—not just of unemployed individuals, but now even those with low-paying or part-time jobs. With the cost of living continuing to rise and former President Donald Trump having halted several key funding programs, these food banks are facing a severe crisis. The U.S. government had previously provided a $13 million grant, which has now been discontinued.
The demand for food banks surged during the COVID-19 pandemic and has remained high due to ongoing economic instability. Traditionally, these services were overwhelmed during times of high unemployment. But now, even families with low-income jobs are relying on food assistance. A recent report from the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) stated that in 2023, one million more families faced food insecurity compared to 2022.
Stagnant Incomes, Soaring Costs
Wages across America have stagnated or remained flat. But expenses—especially food, housing, and utilities—have skyrocketed. As a result, even salaried workers are turning to food banks for support. Organizations that once helped millions with nutritional food are now struggling due to reduced funding.
- In March, due to budget cuts, the availability of food at banks decreased significantly.
- The USDA halted $500 million in food delivery programs and discontinued another $1 billion in hunger relief programs.
- Homeland Security also slashed funding for shelters and food aid meant for immigrants.
Feeding America in Crisis
Feeding America, the largest food bank network in the U.S., with over 200 member banks, is now in a dire situation.
- Brian Greene, CEO of the Houston Food Bank, said they lost $4 million in funding this year due to federal grant cuts. If the situation continues, they expect to incur another $3 million in losses and local food producers may lose about $7 million in support. While they hope to fill the gap through charitable donations, that’s proving difficult.
- The U.S. generally allocates about 2% of its GDP toward charitable causes. If that funding stops, private donations will not be sufficient to cover the shortfall.
“We Can’t Afford the Basics”
In Alameda, California, a woman named Christiana Santamaria stands in line every week at a food bank. She says she does this for her husband, her daughter, and herself. With rising prices, they can no longer afford groceries, internet bills, or car expenses. Their household income is just $3,000 a month, and although her husband works full-time, it’s not enough to sustain the family.
“We’re already in a difficult situation, and now we’re sliding into a full-blown crisis,” said Melanie Samuels, Executive Director of the Campaign Against Hunger. She warned that if further grant cuts occur, many food banks may be forced to shut down. Previously, some families received food kits twice a month, but now many can only get them once—leaving elderly people, single mothers, and those pushing carts waiting desperately outside food banks.
