As we continue into this new year, we remain hopeful for a better future—one where none of our neighbors has to wonder where their next meal will come from. Unfortunately, the reality is that an increasing number of individuals across our nation are seeking charitable assistance to help make ends meet, and Missouri is no exception to this trend. Many of our neighbors—seniors, families, and individuals—are turning to food banks for the first time in their lives.
Recent findings from the Missouri Foundation for Health’s Speak Up report highlight the urgency of this issue: with more than a quarter of Missourians noting they have been unable to afford food at some point in the past year. This may explain why the report also found that 71% of all Missouri respondents identified the rising cost of living as is a significant problem.
The escalating costs of living are creating substantial challenges for families and individuals living on fixed or limited incomes, making it increasingly difficult for them to meet their basic needs. Our food banks remain committed to providing nutritious food, but they and their partners have also expanded services to connect neighbors facing hunger with other valuable resources, such as nutrition education, job training programs, utility assistance, healthcare services, and transportation. Until inflation and the cost of living decrease, it will require a multifaceted approach to truly tackle food insecurity.
Despite these challenges, we remain hopeful about the innovative solutions that will emerge from this crisis. They may lead to lasting positive changes for the communities served by food banks. Together, we can work toward a future where everyone has enough to eat.