US food poverty multiplies in 4 years

(MENAFN)
Food insecurity in the United States has nearly doubled since 2021, according to Axios, which cited new data from Morning Consult. The rise comes as the federal government significantly reduces food assistance programs, sparking fears about the growing number of Americans struggling to access enough food.

A new law signed by President Donald Trump, dubbed the “Big, Beautiful Bill,” enacts $230 billion in cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) over the next ten years. The legislation tightens work requirements, extending them to individuals up to age 64 and limiting exemptions for parents.

Morning Consult’s survey shows a steady increase in adults reporting that they sometimes or often don’t have enough to eat. As of May, 15.6% of U.S. adults were considered food insecure—nearly twice the rate seen in 2021, when enhanced SNAP benefits and an expanded Child Tax Credit temporarily reduced poverty and boosted food access.

The spike in food insecurity stands in stark contrast to the broader U.S. economic picture, which includes record highs in the stock market. Morning Consult’s chief economist, John Leer, highlighted this disconnect, noting how economic gains are not translating into improved conditions for millions of Americans.

In Philadelphia, the Share Food Program—a major food bank network—has reported a 120% surge in demand over the past three years. Executive Director George Matysik pointed to the rollback of pandemic-era aid in 2022 as a turning point in rising hunger rates.

The situation is expected to deteriorate further as the new SNAP requirements go into effect. Critics warn that millions could see their benefits reduced or lose access entirely. According to the Congressional Budget Office, expanded work requirements could strip food aid from 3.2 million people in an average month.

Food banks nationwide are preparing for a surge in demand. Many are already stretched thin, and the anticipated rise in food insecurity could overwhelm their capacity to help those in need.

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