Mid-Ohio Food Collective Faces Major Setbacks: $1.4 Million Loss in Food Supply
The Mid-Ohio Food Collective (MOFC) is confronting a grim reality as it loses a staggering $1.4 million and nearly 700,000 pounds of food due to recent cuts in federal funding. This crisis is not just a number; it signifies the urgent need for community awareness and involvement in the fight against hunger.
The Impact of Federal Cuts on Local Food Banks
Amid rising demand for food assistance, MOFC CEO Matt Habash shared that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has canceled deliveries that primarily consisted of meat, dairy, and eggs. Habash aptly noted that while the assistance wanes, the demand for food banks is at an all-time high. “These are your neighbors,” he remarked, highlighting the harsh reality that many food pantry users are families and individuals who live right next door.
The cuts to MOFC are part of a broader trend impacting local food resources, affecting several USDA programs, including the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). In addition, shifts in the Commodity Credit Corporation and Section 32 have further slashed support for food pantries, compounding the crisis.
Rising Demand and Shrinking Resources
A Broader Picture of Food Insecurity
The recent USDA cuts come in the wake of rising inflation and proposed reductions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Proposed budget changes in Ohio would strip an alarming $7.5 million from local food pantries, exacerbating an already dire situation. The Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program (LFPA), which previously offered over $1 million in purchasing power, has also seen its funds canceled.
With the MOFC serving a 20-county region, last year, the organization provided more than 83 million pounds of food to over 500,000 people. “There’s going to be a lot of hungry people,” Habash warned. “It’s just going to be less food available for those who need it now.”
Challenging Misconceptions About Food Pantry Users
Many people have a misconception about those who rely on food assistance—often viewing them as unmotivated or lazy. Habash challenges this narrative, emphasizing that most food pantry users are working individuals who struggle to make ends meet.
“Nobody wants to come and get emergency food. They would rather provide for themselves,” he explained. Many individuals struggling with poverty opt to cut their grocery budgets to manage mounting bills. This choice reflects the tough reality of living paycheck to paycheck.
The Mission of Providing Fresh Food
Despite budgetary challenges, MOFC remains committed to its mission of delivering fresh, high-quality food. Last year, an impressive 64% of the food distributed by MOFC was fresh, underscoring its importance in promoting health and wellness within the community.
Habash pointed out the connection between food access and health outcomes, stating, "I suggest that we’re a high-value, low-cost health care strategy.” Unfortunately, the reduction in federal funds severely hampers their ability to deliver this essential service.
What Can You Do?
While volunteering and food drives are commendable, Habash stressed that local charities alone cannot fill the void left by federal and potential state cuts. He urges community members to take action: contact their lawmakers and express that these cuts are unacceptable. “We should not have a hunger problem in America,” he stated. Local voices can drive significant changes within the legislative framework.
As the community grapples with these challenges, it is essential to remember that advocacy plays a pivotal role in ensuring that every individual has access to the food they need.
Final Thoughts
In this time of crisis, the Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s fight is our fight. By advocating for change, spreading awareness, and supporting local initiatives, we can contribute to a future where hunger is no longer a reality for our neighbors.
About the Author:
Cole Behrens is a dedicated journalist covering K-12 education and school districts in central Ohio. If you have tips concerning this issue, reach out to Cole at [email protected] or connect via X at @Colebehr_report.
