The Latest on Ohio's Food Banks

Inflation and food shortages strike again! 😡 Many Ohioans rely on help from food banks to feed their families, but things have gotten a lot tougher this year. 

Although pandemic assistance programs have ended, the state is still sitting on a considerable amount of relief money. 💸 Some residents are mad and feel like funding should go to food banks ASAP. Let's take a look at what's happening. 

 

Here’s Five Fast Facts on the state of food banks in Ohio:

  1. ✂️ Cutting Back - Many food banks have had to cut their usual five day supplies down to three. And a recent study shows that 8% of Ohio residents didn't get enough to eat in the previous week.
  2. 📦 No Relief- A Coronavirus relief program supplied Ohio food banks with 27.5 million pounds of food last year, but it ended. 
  3. 🐟 Something's Fishy - The USDA contributions to food banks in Ohio have shrunk about 30%. Meat and fish seem to be the biggest concerns.
  4. 📉 Not Just Ohio - Inflation and supply chain issues are affecting food banks across the entire country. According to Feeding America, food banks are shelling out 40% more for items compared to 2021.
  5. 👀 Taking a Look - State officials say they're aware of the situation and are actively reviewing the food banks' requests for assistance. 

🔥Bottom line: While Ohio seems to have the funds to solve this problem, a lot of factors are at play. Food shortages, inflation, and more people than ever relying on government assistance has stressed food banks to the max. 😖 Let's hope state officials make moves ASAP so hungry Ohioans can get the help they need. In the meantime, if you can, consider making a donation to your local food bank. 

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