A Feeding Indiana’s Hungry study found 76% of surveyed households expect to need food assistance as often or more in the next year. Nearly two-thirds of those who receive monthly assistance run out of benefits within two weeks.
Emily Weikert Bryant, executive director of Feeding Indiana’s Hungry, said more than 70% of respondents had to choose between food and transportation, while over half had to choose between food and housing.
“The stark reality revealed by this study is really a wake-up call for all of us,” Bryant emphasized. “It’s unacceptable that so many Hoosiers are forced to make impossible choices between feeding your families and covering basic needs like transportation and housing.”
Bryant noted many skipped meals. Some faced even tougher choices, like food or medical care.
The survey showed having a job is not always enough. Bryant pointed out more than half of surveyed households had at least one working adult. Many who were unemployed cited illness or disability. Others lost benefits because their income was just over the limit. Some missed paperwork deadlines and lost benefits.
“Even those who are accessing the federal nutrition programs, it’s not enough and that’s where the charitable sector continues to feel that gap,” Bryant stressed. “In the climate that we’re talking about right now, we need to make sure that the program is not being cut.”
Feeding Indiana’s Hungry is calling for action, saying food banks need donations, volunteers, and stronger policy support to keep up with demand. Bryant argued federal and state programs must do more to ensure families do not go hungry.
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