LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX NEWS) — As Hunger Action Month gets underway, new data shows food insecurity continues to affect hundreds of thousands of Kentuckians.
God’s Pantry Food Bank says more than 314,000 people across the 50 counties it serves are facing food insecurity.
That’s about one in five people, including one in four children.
The latest data from Feeding America shows food insecurity is up 12.4% from the previous year.
God’s Pantry says rising food and fuel costs are putting additional pressure on families, including those who are working.
“Many of the families that we’re serving are working families, and they’re having to make impossible choices each and every day between buying groceries, paying for gas, household utilities, medications,” said Alex Maddox with God's Pantry.
Some of the highest rates of food insecurity in the country are in Kentucky.
God’s Pantry says in Eastern Kentucky, Knox, Magoffin and Owsley counties are among the communities particularly affected.
The food bank also says it’s seeing fewer food donations from some retail partners as the cost of groceries continues to rise.
God’s Pantry says there are several ways people can help during Hunger Action Month — even if they aren’t able to make a financial donation.
People can:
- Volunteer with a local hunger-relief organization
- Wear orange to raise awareness about food insecurity
- Share information about hunger in their communities
- Donate food or other needed items
God’s Pantry says every act of kindness can make a difference in the fight against hunger.
Sydney St. Claire is committed to covering the stories that matter to you. If you have an idea, please reach out to Sydney at sydney.stclaire@wlex.tv
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