The Rhode Island Community Food Bank is urging lawmakers to reconsider a proposed funding cut of 31% in the upcoming state budget, expressing concerns over the increasing number of families in need of food assistance. The organization currently serves over 80,000 people a month through food pantries, a significant rise from pre-pandemic numbers. The majority of the food bank’s operating budget comes from charitable donations, with state funding used to purchase food.
Data from the 2024 Status Report on Hunger reveals that almost two in five households in Rhode Island struggle to afford an adequate food supply, highlighting the severity of food insecurity in the state. With uncertainty surrounding federal funding in Washington, the food bank is bracing for more individuals seeking assistance in the coming year. The potential impacts of proposed cuts to federal programs like free school lunch could further strain resources and drive more people to rely on the food bank.
Governor Dan McKee has proposed allocating $550,000 to the food bank in the state budget, a figure that matches last year’s proposal before additional funding was added by lawmakers. The organization recently held a “Food Insecurity Awareness Day” to shed light on the ongoing issue and emphasize the importance of maintaining support for those in need. CEO Andrew Schiff stressed that the problem of food insecurity has not improved and cutting funding now would only exacerbate the situation. As discussions over the budget continue, the food bank remains hopeful that lawmakers will prioritize addressing hunger in Rhode Island.
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