Montana food banks face federal assistance cuts

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Montana Food Banks Face Devastating Cuts to Federal Support

Montana food banks are bracing for a monumental setback as they prepare to lose over 300,000 pounds of nutritious food. Recent federal cuts to the Emergency Food Assistance Program (EFAP) have left these vital community resources grappling with the challenges of ensuring food security. In a recent announcement, the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the cancellation of $500 million in purchases for this essential program—a decision that will ripple across the state and profoundly impact those in need.

A Disturbing Drop in Food Resources

The Montana Food Bank Network, a crucial lifeline that supports 330 partner food banks and organizations, is projected to lose upwards of $400,000 worth of food. According to a recent update on their Facebook page, this stark reduction isn’t just a budgetary concern; it translates into tangible losses for many families who rely on these distributions for their daily meals.

One particularly hard-hit organization, the Missoula Food Bank, will absorb a staggering 91,000 pounds, equating to $180,000 in lost inventory. For context, last year this food bank managed to distribute 2.8 million pounds of food—228,290 pounds of which came directly from the emergency assistance program.

Why Variety Matters: Voices from the Frontlines

Amy Allison, the executive director of the Missoula Food Bank, emphasizes the critical nature of food variety in combating hunger. “Unfortunately, this will lead to a reduction in variety we [offer],” she stated, highlighting that a diverse diet is crucial for health. The EFAP initially aimed to bridge the gap between farms and food banks, providing items like nuts, dairy, and wholesome grains.

With these increased food shortages, Allison warns that the organization will face not only a deficit of variety but also a drastically impacted budget. To navigate these difficult waters, Allison anticipates ramping up fundraising efforts—a task that will become "incredibly challenging" if federal funding continues to dwindle.

Community Impact: The Urgent Need for Support

Currently, about 21% of the Missoula Food Bank’s budget comes from government funding. Cuts to programs like their federally funded Kids Table initiative, which provides free meals for children during the summer months, would pose severe risks to community food security. “We’ve never seen numbers like that,” Allison shared, noting that on multiple days this year, the food bank has served over 400 families, a routine that is alarmingly high in the face of rising living costs and inflationary pressures.

The Broader Picture: A Rising Tide of Need

The deepening crisis isn’t confined to the Missoula Food Bank alone; Gallatin County’s food banks are also preparing for the fallout. According to Jill Holder, food and nutrition director for the HRDC, the EFAP accounts for about 5% of the Gallatin Valley Food Bank’s inventory—representing around 100,000 pounds of necessary sustenance. Much of the affected programs in the region, including those serving Three Forks and Big Sky, rely significantly on federal provisions.

Join the Fight Against Hunger: How You Can Help

Encouraging community involvement is more crucial than ever. Allison, determined to maintain their essential services, encourages anyone who can to donate or advocate against harmful cuts at both state and federal levels. The resilience of organizations like the Missoula Food Bank is rooted in the support from a generous community. “We are here for those in need and will continue to serve,” she assures.

If you’re interested in supporting these efforts, donations—be they food or monetary—can be made directly at the Missoula Food Bank’s website or through local initiatives.

A Call to Action: Community Resilience

With Spring just around the corner, the HRDC’s annual Spring for Food Drive aims to collect 15,000 pounds of food. Volunteers will be stationed at various grocery stores, actively soliciting donations of non-perishable items and fresh produce. This drive plays an integral part in their mission to support families facing food insecurity—serving 1,900 to 2,000 households a month, a stark increase from previous averages.

“Sometimes you need help, and sometimes you can give help," Holder reminds us, encapsulating the spirit of community food banking. It’s these moments of solidarity that can make or break the safety net for families in Montana.

As we navigate these challenging times, let us remember that united, we can stand firm against the tide of hunger. Together, we can create a safety net that ensures no one goes hungry in our communities.

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