Hunger and Food Security

Hunger and Food Security:  Upward trends in use of food pantries in the last few years clearly show the effects of the poor economy.  Between 2005 and 2009, the number of individuals using food pantries increased by 52%, the amount of food distributed at the pantries increased by 72%, and the use of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP – formerly Food Stamps) more than doubled.  It appears that unemployment and underemployment (key features of the recent recession) are expected to continue for some time even though parts of the economy may be recovering.  Therefore, the high need for food supplements for vulnerable people will continue.