TEXT OF STORY
Scott Jagow: Today, in Washington, Congress looks at how food prices are affecting people in this country. Jeff Tyler reports.
Jeff Tyler: With the slowing economy and rising unemployment, low income Americans are being squeezed.
George Brailey: Many people who’ve never been to a food pantry or a food bank are finding themselves in need today.
That’s George Brailey with America’s Second Harvest, a network of food banks. He’ll be speaking at today’s hearing. He says the need for assistance is growing.
Brailey: The number of people receiving food stamps today is 1.3 million higher than it was just a year ago.
But with the rapid rise in prices, food stamps don’t go as far. As a result, more families are turning up at soup kitchens. And Brailey says charities are having a harder time providing help.
For one thing, the federal government is donating less food than in the past. And, of course, inflation cuts into a food bank’s buying power. So, with the same budget, they can’t feed as many people.
I’m Jeff Tyler for Marketplace.
Stories You Might Like
As a nonprofit news organization, our future depends on listeners like you who believe in the power of public service journalism.
Your investment in Marketplace helps us remain paywall-free and ensures everyone has access to trustworthy, unbiased news and information, regardless of their ability to pay.
Donate today — in any amount — to become a Marketplace Investor. Now more than ever, your commitment makes a difference.
