Hunger crisis worsens in NC, many turning to food banks, some for the first time
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Nearly 630,000 people in North Carolina are facing food insecurity, reflecting a more than 70% increase since 2021, according to 2024 data.
Food bank leaders say rising costs are forcing more families to seek assistance as household budgets struggle to keep pace with everyday expenses.
Amy Beros, president and CEO of the Food Bank, said many families are turning to food banks and pantries for the first time.
"It's increased cost for food, gas, health care, and childcare," Beros said. "For so many of our families, the wages have not kept up."
Beros said she is concerned that more families could face food insecurity as federal funding cuts and rising costs affect millions of Americans.
At the same time, resources are under pressure, including SNAP benefits, which more than 1 million North Carolina residents rely on.
The Community of Hope Ministries Food Pantry in Garner, which serves hundreds of families across southern Wake County, is also seeing increasing demand.
"We had 399 households," Executive Director Amy White said. "That's households representing about 1,500 individuals served through our food pantry before COVID."
Food bank officials said more than 86 million meals have been provided by the food bank, while more than 250 million meals have been provided statewide.
As demand continues to grow, White said volunteer support and community involvement remain critical. September is Hunger Action Month.
"We're seeing lots and lots of new needs walk through our door, and it's those faces that make us remain steady in our commitment to making sure that every table has food, that hunger is eliminated, and that families have a chance to survive and thrive," White said.
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