Source: USDA > 

In recent years, food prices have shifted, impacting communities across the United States, especially in Los Angeles County. While monthly fluctuations may seem modest, the cumulative effect is significant, especially for vulnerable populations. According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), US food-at-home prices surged by 5 percent in 2023 compared to the previous year, well above the historical average of 2.5 percent. This trend is alarming, particularly considering the broader context of a 25 percent increase in food prices from 2019 to 2023.

• USA food-at-home prices increased 5% in 2023 compared with 2022.
• From 2019 to 2023, the all-food Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 25%—a higher increase than the all-items CPI, which grew 19.2% over the same period.
• Transportation costs grew 27.1%.
• In 2022, food prices increased faster than any year since 1979.
• In 2022, the production-weighted price of these crops increased by 83%, while food prices increased by 10%.

The repercussions of these price hikes are profound, with families facing tough choices between purchasing nutritious meals and meeting other essential needs. The most vulnerable among us, including children, older adults and those experiencing poverty, bear the brunt of these challenges. As prices for essentials like fats and oils, sugar, cereals, and bakery products skyrocket, food insecurity becomes an ever-looming threat.

The impact of inflation extends beyond the dinner table. Higher food prices intersect with other economic pressures, exacerbating the strain on already stretched budgets. Transportation costs, housing, and medical care have all seen increases, but none have been quite as steep as the rise in food prices.

There is hope, thanks to the generosity of people who support nonprofits like the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Organizations like the LA Regional Food Bank, which has been fighting hunger for over 50 years, continue to stand as beacons of support for those in need. Through dedicated efforts and community support, these organizations provide a lifeline for thousands facing hunger and food insecurity. By leveraging partnerships, donations and volunteer efforts, food banks and partner agencies play a vital role in bridging the gap between abundance and scarcity.

If you are not already active in the fight against hunger, now’s the time to join. Every donation, every volunteer hour, makes a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families struggling to put food on the table. By supporting initiatives like the LA Regional Food Bank, we alleviate immediate suffering and invest in our communities’ long-term resilience.

As you navigate the complexities of a changing world, remember the power of compassion and collective action. Together, we can work to realize the vision of the LA Regional Food Bank: that no one goes hungry in LA County. Our hope is that every plate is filled with nourishment. Join the fight against food and nutrition insecurity and build a brighter, more inclusive future for all. Your support matters—now more than ever.