Inflation has hit a 40-year high as low and middle-income households struggle to make ends meet

Everywhere you look, everywhere you go, inflation is there. While there are some aspects that can be avoided, it’s the everyday essentials like food, housing, and gas that are taking the biggest hit. According to an article by the Associated Press, inflation on these essential items has gone up 9.1% in comparison to last year, the largest increase in over 40 years.

It is because of this significant inflation that the need for food assistance has also increased. The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank began seeing a surge in March and has continued to serve the LA County community through the new crisis.

Inflation Impacts Low and Middle-Income Families

When inflation started taking a toll on the economy, the Food Bank began seeing an increase in individuals seeking food assistance. The Food Bank is still reaching 800,000 individuals in need each month and continues to see a 110% increase in comparison to February 2020. 

While many low-income families knew of the resources available to them, middle-income families sought help for the first time. With gas prices at an average of $5.93 per gallon in LA County, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment at $2,395, it doesn’t matter if an individual earns $15 per hour or $35 per hour, low and middle-income families are struggling to make ends meet.

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Cutting Down Meals to Save Money

Ana Whilchez has been attending the Friends in Deed distributions in Pasadena since 2003. On distribution days, Whilchez will get her shopping cart ready and walk down to the intersection of Washington and Los Robles Avenues to get the food that will help feed herself and her three school-age grandchildren.

When the pandemic hit, Whilchez started going to Friends in Deed more often, but as time went by, her visits became sporadic, that was until her visits to the grocery store started leaving a larger dent in her wallet. With three grandchildren at home, she couldn’t afford to cover the grocery bill, and other bills, on her own.

Making a Difference in the Community

Your contribution today can make a difference in the life of an individual in need. You can make a difference by making a one-time or monthly donation, or by donating your time to the Food Bank. Together, We Feed LA.