Economic Squeeze Drives Demand For Food Banks In Swing States

Food banks in key states like Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin are witnessing an overwhelming rise in demand as inflation and high living costs hit families hard. With increased expenses in rent, groceries and utilities, families are finding themselves needing help they never anticipated.

Joe Arthur, Executive Director of Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, has seen a 50% jump in demand since 2021. “The need is as high as at the peak of the pandemic, yet resources for these families are now limited,” Arthur shared, noting the struggle his organization faces in meeting this growing need.

The surge is evident across a range of communities, from rural areas in Michigan to suburban towns in Wisconsin, where food bank officials say they’re serving people who have never sought assistance before. Ken Estelle, president of Feeding America West Michigan, shared, “We have never seen this level of need in the 43 years we have been serving,” as demand stretches beyond what the organization’s resources can manage.

The rise in prices has been sharp: grocery costs are up 21.6%, electricity has risen by 28% and rent by 23% since 2021, according to national data. Many families are finding themselves with little disposable income left over, forcing them to seek help just to cover basic needs.

Critics, including President Donald Trump, point to this economic strain as a failure of the current administration. A recent poll from RMG Research shows 57% of voters feel worse off than four years ago, underscoring growing frustration.

With the need for food assistance rising, officials warn that resources may not keep pace, deepening the struggles for families across these key states.