by Alesha Brown, Chief Operating Officer

Understanding Food Insecurity in the U.S. & How to Eat Healthier on a Budget Food insecurity is a growing crisis in the United States, affecting millions of individuals and families who struggle to access nutritious and affordable meals.

While government programs and food banks help alleviate hunger, many households rely on nonperishable, processed, and prepackaged foods to get by. The challenge, however, is finding ways to make these foods nutritious, budget-friendly, and sustainable for the entire family.

Food Insecurity in the U.S. Food insecurity is defined as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. According to Feeding America, over 34 million people in the U.S., including 9 million children, experience food insecurity each year【1】.

Some key causes of food insecurity include:

✔️ Low wages & unemployment

✔️ High cost of living & inflation

✔️ Limited access to fresh food in food deserts
✔️ Rising healthcare costs

✔️ Lack of transportation to grocery stores Households facing food insecurity often rely on food banks and pantries, where nonperishable foods like canned goods, boxed meals, and processed items are more available than fresh produce and meats.

Food Insecurity in Newport News & Hampton, VA The food insecurity crisis also affects Virginia, particularly in Newport News and Hampton. According to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap, food insecurity rates in Newport News and Hampton are 10.7% and 9.1%, respectively【2】.

That means over 48,000 individuals in the Greater Peninsula are struggling to access nutritious food.

Key statistics:

📌 1 in 11 individuals in the region is food insecure
📌 20,000 children in the area lack access to adequate food
📌 Foodbanks and pantries have seen a 30% increase in demand
📌 Up to 50% decrease in food donations due to inflation

While food banks provide essential relief, many individuals rely on low-cost, nonperishable foods that may not always be the healthiest options. So, how can we make better use of what’s available while improving our health?

Download our February Guide for recipes, exercises, tips, and tricks you can use today!
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If you focus on meeting the needs of others, your needs will always be met.

Take care of your health and that of your families, but don't forget to look for ways to meet the needs of others. The poor will always be among us, but hopefully so will those with a giving heart.