Missouri food insecurity numbers on the rise
COLUMBIA, MO. (KMIZ)
According to Feeding America's new data through 2024, food insecurity numbers are up from 2023.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines food security as the condition in which all people, at all times, have access to enough food for an active, healthy life.
In 2023, Feeding America reported an estimated 951,330 food-insecure population in the entire state, making a 15.4% food insecurity rate in Missouri.
In 2024, Feeding America reported an estimated 997,750 food-insecure population in the state of Missouri, making a 16% food insecurity rate in Missouri.
Feeding Missouri, a partner of Feeding America, says that between 2020-24, food prices have increased by nearly 24%. Executive Director of Feeding Missouri Leigh Anne Haun said rising food insecurity is being fueled by multiple factors.
"Food insecurity is not the result of a single challenge. It is often the combination of higher costs, economic uncertainty, and difficult tradeoffs that families face every day," Huan said.
2024 data shows in central and northeast Missouri, there are an estimated 134,030 food-insecure people, which is an estimated 7,830 people from 2023-24. With rising numbers Feeding Missouri says the food banks are being resilient.
"The charitable food network has always been resilient. Across Missouri, food banks and their community partners continue to work together to ensure families can access food close to home," Huan said.
She also adds the importance of community. "The single greatest need right now is continued community investment. It takes donors, volunteers, businesses, community organizations, and policymakers working together to ensure Missouri families have access to nutritious food.” said Huan.
To combat rising food insecurity, The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri serves 32 counties, including Adair, Audrain, Benton, Boone, Callaway, Camden, Chariton, Clark, Cole, Cooper, Howard, Knox, Lewis, Linn, Macon, Maries, Marion, Miller, Moniteau, Monroe, Morgan, Osage, Pettis, Phelps, Putnam, Ralls, Randolph, Saline, Schuyler, Scotland, Shelby and Sullivan counties.
