Tackling Food Insecurity: A Call to Action for Brookings and Beyond
Food insecurity is a pressing issue, not just in Brookings but around the globe. This crisis should not be tolerated. While the community has made commendable strides to combat this problem, increasing numbers demand our attention and action.
The Rise of Feeding Brookings
Feeding Brookings began its journey as an outreach ministry at Ascension Lutheran Church in 2010, inspired by Jesus’ miraculous act of feeding a multitude with limited resources. This powerful mission now distributes food weekly on Thursdays, providing essential support to those in need.
Growing Needs Post-COVID
Before the pandemic, Feeding Brookings served an average of 90-102 households weekly, equating to over 200 individuals. Fast forward to today, and that number has surged to 400-450 households, impacting more than 2,000 individuals, including vulnerable seniors and struggling families. This alarming growth underscores the urgency surrounding food insecurity.
Our Dependable Volunteers
Behind this significant operation is a dedicated team of volunteers. They meticulously plan, order, organize, and distribute food sourced from various outlets each week. These heroes of compassion ensure that the community’s most vulnerable receive nutritious meals, providing a lifeline to many.
Where Does the Food Come From?
Food donations flow from renowned organizations such as Feeding America, Feeding South Dakota, and local partners including Sanderson and Madsen Gardens, SIPKA Meats, and Hy-Vee. However, recent cuts in subsidies threaten these vital resources. For example, in September and October 2024 alone, Feeding Brookings spent $8,200 on protein sources that would normally cost $77,341. Without these donations, the situation would be dire.
The Federal Funding Crisis
April 2025 saw a staggering $500 million cut in USDA funding to food banks, further complicating the fight against food insecurity. Programs like TEFAP, SNAP, and LFPA are facing potential elimination, which could have devastating effects on communities. At a recent meeting, Lori Dykstra, CEO of Feeding South Dakota, highlighted that these cuts could lead to 3,400 families losing assistance and 1.7 million meals disappearing annually. The ripple effects of such decisions extend into every community.
The Importance of Our Community Response
As the threat of cuts looms larger and grocery prices persistently rise, we can expect the demand at Feeding Brookings to increase further. The weekly distribution may soon exceed 450 households, intensifying the urgency for support.
How You Can Help
Feeding Brookings is actively seeking monetary and food donations. Contributions are tax-deductible and can be made out to Ascension Lutheran, with “Feeding Brookings” indicated in the memo. These funds cover crucial expenses for fresh fruits, vegetables, and hygiene items, which can reach $10,000 to $14,000 monthly. Additionally, volunteers are critical to the operation. If you’d like to help, sign up here.
Urging Legislative Action
It is imperative that our South Dakota congressional delegation votes against any reductions in federal food and health programs. The stakes have never been higher. Cuts breed uncertainty, jeopardizing the health and welfare of those who rely on these essential services.
Bridging the Divide
The stark contrast between political agendas and the fundamental need for adequate nutrition for millions signifies a critical dilemma. Addressing food insecurity must transcend partisan divides; it’s a matter of human dignity and community strength.
In conclusion, food insecurity in Brookings and worldwide should not be tolerated. It calls not just for awareness, but for immediate action. Together, we can create a robust support system that ensures no one goes hungry while fostering a community rich in compassion and resilience.
