Inflation and end of pandemic SNAP benefits worsen food insecurity.

A Growing Number of Households Receiving Food Benefits

A recent report has revealed a concerning trend: an increasing number of households surveyed have been receiving food benefits since the beginning of this year. The data, released by Morning Consult and obtained by NBC News, shows that in May, 47% of households earning less than $50,000 annually received food benefits, compared to 39% in February. This significant rise occurred just before 35 states ended the pandemic-era Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program allotment of an extra $95.

Rising Food Insecurity

In a separate report, 2,000 individuals were surveyed and self-reported their food insecurity. The findings were alarming, with a particularly steep increase of 9 points among households with children under 18 living at home. In April, 18% of these households reported food insecurity, which jumped to 27% in May. This rise in food insecurity can be attributed to stubbornly high food inflation.

Concerns Over Inflation

The consumer price index recently reported a 6.7% increase in overall food prices for the 12 months ending in May. This comes after two consecutive slight decreases in April and March. Food prices at home specifically saw a significant increase of 5.8%. These inflationary pressures further exacerbate the challenges faced by households already struggling with food insecurity.

Legislative Efforts to Address the Issue

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) introduced the Opt for Health with SNAP Act in their respective bodies last week. This proposed bill aims to strengthen the government’s Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program by allocating an additional $3.5 billion to the SNAP benefits program over the next five years. Furthermore, it seeks to eliminate the state matching requirement, providing much-needed support to those in need.

As the need for food assistance continues to grow, it is crucial that we address this issue promptly and effectively. By implementing legislative measures and providing adequate funding, we can work towards alleviating food insecurity and ensuring that every household has access to nutritious meals.