Inflation drives up need at local food banks above pandemic levels

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Food banks are stretched thin as inflation drives up the need beyond what organizations saw even during the pandemic.

Feeding Northeast Florida said the demand for its services is up about 25% over this time last year.

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“If you could barely make your paycheck stretch 12 months ago — at this point it’s almost impossible,” said Sarah Dobson, the senior director of development at Feeding Northeast Florida.“It’s a silent crisis. But things are tough for just regular neighbors.”

Dobson said the food banks across the eight counties they serve see an average of 85,000 people a day.

While the need is high, she said the organization is hit from both sides of inflation. Feeding Northeast Florida rescues food on its way to landfills, but also purchases food to fill in the gaps. Dobson said your Thanksgiving groceries will likely be up to 30% more expensive this year compared to last.

“It’s affected us tremendously,” Dobson said. “It’s a lot of people that need a little extra help right now.”

You can go to Feeding Northeast Florida.

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