Local Food Banks Struggle to Fill Shelves and Bellies After Government Cuts Food Aid

Say the word “food,” and what images come to mind? Plentiful pantries? Stocked refrigerators? Full bellies? 

Sadly, nonprofit food banks across South Lake County are seeing empty shelves. Many are in crisis as federal and state food programs face cuts, forcing them to scramble to maintain services and support families struggling with food insecurity. 

The U.S. government has cut over $1 billion from U.S. food aid programs, specifically targeting programs that support food banks and schools buying local food. We are feeling it already right here in Lake County. A nonprofit director (she does not take a salary) called to express concern that these cuts will worsen and impact vulnerable populations. 

The situation is particularly dire for organizations that rely on government funding for food collection and distribution. Their budgets are already stretched thin. With the increased demand for services, now they have less food to distribute. These sudden budget cuts have real impacts on the lives of babies, kids, teens, the elderly, and the homeless. 

The Community Foundation of South Lake County recognizes food insecurity as a primary focus. We provide grants to nonprofit organizations through the generosity of people who make contributions to these two funds: 

Feeding Lake County Endowed Fund focuses on food insecurity. 

Basic Needs Fund addresses immediate needs, including food scarcity. 

It’s a complex problem. Less food available, higher food costs and increased demand is a one, two, three punch that few people can recover. Nonprofits are doing their best. They need our help. 

If you are concerned about the hunger, nutrition, and health complications caused by food insecurity, please consider a gift to one or both funds. Like food in a pantry, your gift will go to work immediately to fill an empty plate somewhere in Lake County. 

Laura Michalski

Executive Director 

Community Foundation of South Lake County