Supply is short, demand is high—and inflation, the pandemic, and the Ukraine conflict are all taking their toll on American food banks in a perfect storm of issues:
Supply is short and demand is high. Inflation, climate change, and Russia’s war in Ukraine are all to blame.
Elsewhere in the United States, rising prices have forced dozens of charitable nonprofits to shutter, temporarily close, or reduce services. This spring, Nashville’s Little Pantry closed down after five years of operation. New Jersey’s Angels Community Outreach announced a temporary closure due to supply shortages. And Utah’s Tooele Food Pantry canceled an important food drive because of staffing and logistical issues.
Other challenges include COVID-related labor shortages, drought and other extreme weather conditions, and a reduction in food stamp benefits and other programs that were put in place during the pandemic. Russia’s war in Ukraine has also laid bare the U.S. food system’s overreliance on fossil fuel energy sources, which touch every aspect of the food chain from production and refrigeration to transportation. “When energy prices are high, food prices are right there with them,” Welsh explains.
One of the best ways to get involved is by holding a food drive. To do so, contact your local food bank, ask them what supplies they need, how they prefer to receive donations, and any protocols around pick-up and drop-off. Feeding America recommends collecting donations for at least two weeks and focusing on essential items like dairy products, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins.
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