Rising Grocery Costs Push Nearly 45% of Virginians Into Debt, Study Finds
CHARLOTTESVILLE, V.A. — Nearly half of Virginia residents say they’ve been driven into debt by rising grocery bills, according to new findings from No Kid Hungry Virginia.
Poll Shows 45% Hit by Food Debt
The survey revealed that 45% of Virginians report higher debt due to food costs. Among parents with children in public schools, the rate was even higher at 52%. Middle-income households, earning between $47,000 and $97,000 annually, are also struggling, with 51% reporting increased debt.
“There really are two economies going on: the people who are doing just fine, and the people who are living on the edge,” said Les Sinclair, communications manager for the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank.
Food Banks Strained as Demand Surges
The pressure is evident at food pantries across the state. Loaves and Fishes, a Central Virginia nonprofit, now serves 12,000 people each month — a 20% increase over last year.
“Everybody needs help right now,” said Jane Colony Mills, the group’s executive director. “We have people who are fully employed, people with multiple jobs, people who are disabled, immigrants — everybody.”
The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank has seen a 16% year-over-year increase in demand, with some parents reportedly skipping meals so their children can eat.
Hardship Stories Emerging
One case described by food bank staff involved parents of three daughters who resorted to eating one potato a day so their kids could have proper meals.
At the Emergency Food Network, board chair Miette Michie said they’re serving at least 100 families per week but are sometimes forced to turn people away.
“Groceries are expensive, and they seem to be going up,” Michie said. “We only have so many resources to draw upon.”
Federal Policy and Local Strain
The issue has been compounded by federal policy changes. In March, the USDA ended a program that allowed pantries to buy fresh produce and meat from local farmers. That cutback has forced organizations like Loaves and Fishes to stop purchasing food from area suppliers.
As Congress reconvenes, advocates say the Farm Bill will be crucial for ensuring resources for food banks, farmers, and struggling households alike.
Widespread Agreement on Food Security
Despite political divides, No Kid Hungry Virginia’s poll found bipartisan support for tackling hunger.
“Republicans, independents, Democrats all agree that no children should be hungry, and people should have enough food to eat,” Sinclair said.
Even as nonprofits face mounting challenges, leaders vow to keep serving communities in need.
Do you believe Virginia leaders should prioritize food assistance in the upcoming Farm Bill to ease the grocery burden? Share your views with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
