Issue: Fall 2022
For two and half years now, we’ve all faced a perfect storm: the impact of COVID, supply chain disruptions, inflation, high costs for food, fuel, and housing, and climate change, which is devastating the agriculture industry.
The consequences are shocking. In 2021, as many as 1 in 3 adults in Massachusetts experienced food insecurity. I thought the numbers would decline, but that hasn’t happened. Instead, the number of individuals and families who rely on food pantries has grown from 32% to 46%.
At the same time, The Greater Boston Food Bank is also affected. Just as the number of people who need food is increasing, the cost for us to meet the demand is higher, too.
Yet, despite the challenges and the growing need, I have hope for one reason: people like you. Thanks to your generosity and compassion, your help has enabled us to help others by continuing to provide food to those who need it most in communities throughout Eastern Massachusetts.
Thank you for standing with us and all those we serve in these challenging times. For some people, it really is a matter of life and death.
Barbara Surujbally is giving back to the community that has given her so much, and experiencing joy in the process.
In partnership with GBFB, The Salem Food Pantry is meeting the needs of growing numbers of people in the Greater Salem area.
GBFB purchases produce through the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program (MEFAP) which supports local farmers.
National conference sets goal of ending hunger, increasing healthy eating and physical activity by 2030.
Food insecurity is well above pre-pandemic levels—many are struggling. Historic inflation has made it harder for families to access enough to eat.
Over the past year, one volunteer has served up to four days a week at GBFB, sorting and packing food, or assisting clients at a mobile market.
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