Food prices have emerged as the most pressing daily cost challenge facing Americans, surpassing housing, healthcare, and fuel expenses, according to a new survey by Save the Children. The data highlights a growing demand for more action to tackle rising child hunger in the country.
The survey conducted by Save the Children Action Network shows that 85% of respondents believe the government should do more to help families struggling to afford food. As Congress debates a new Farm Bill, concerns arise as it seeks to cut payments under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income households, disabled individuals, and the elderly.
SOME FACTORS
Factors like soaring food prices, climate change, conflicts, and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to the worst global hunger crisis in a century. The crisis is now affecting all countries, including the United States, where over 41 million Americans, or one in eight people, rely on SNAP income to afford food, many of whom are families with children.
Save the Children’s survey also found that respondents underestimated the amount received by a typical SNAP recipient for food, with most believing it to be around US$20 per day when the actual amount is approximately US$5.70 per family member per day. When informed of the actual figure, 66% of voters said it should be increased.
The poll reveals that half of those surveyed have personal experiences with SNAP, with 21% stating that someone in their household has received SNAP benefits, and another 27% knowing someone outside their household who has received the benefits. The proportion of people with such experiences increases significantly with lower incomes.
SNAP is considered a crucial tool in alleviating hunger in the U.S., with 85% of respondents stating that it is very (61%) or pretty (23%) important in helping families facing food insecurity.
Save the Children emphasizes the importance of SNAP in addressing deep-rooted inadequacies in the country’s food assistance programs and calls for strengthening the program through the Farm Bill. The organization stresses that child hunger has severe short- and long-term impacts on physical, mental, and educational development, hindering the ability to break the cycle of poverty.
As child hunger rates increase in the country, Save the Children and Save the Children Action Network continue their efforts to combat this pressing issue.
