US federal cuts lead to more food insecurity among citizens
(MENAFN) Food insecurity among American adults has almost doubled since 2021, according to recent data, highlighting growing concerns about the well-being of millions amid substantial reductions in federal food assistance programs.
President Donald Trump’s recently signed “Big, Beautiful Bill” includes $230 billion in cuts over the next decade to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The legislation introduces stricter work requirements, expanding mandates to individuals up to age 64 and limiting exemptions for parents.
Survey results show a steady rise in the share of U.S. adults who report sometimes or often not having enough food. In May, 15.6% of adults were classified as food insecure, nearly twice the rate recorded four years earlier. This increase follows a period when expanded SNAP benefits and an enhanced Child Tax Credit helped reduce poverty and improve food access.
The rise in food insecurity contrasts sharply with signs of economic strength, including record highs in the stock market. John Leer, chief economist at Morning Consult, pointed out the stark contrast: “There’s such a disconnect now between record highs on Wall Street and elevated levels of food insecurity.”
In Philadelphia, the Share Food Program, a large food bank network, reported a 120% jump in demand over the past three years. Executive Director George Matysik noted, “As soon as the government support pulled back in 2022, we started to see the numbers go up.”
The situation is expected to worsen following Congress’s recent passage of sweeping SNAP cuts, which require states to increase funding and impose tougher work requirements on recipients. Critics warn these changes could remove benefits from millions or reduce the aid provided. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the expanded work mandates could result in 3.2 million people losing food assistance in an average month.
Food banks nationwide are preparing for higher demand as these cuts take effect, with many already struggling to meet current needs. The anticipated increase in food insecurity is likely to further strain their resources.
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