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WPRO News and the Associated Press
The Rhode Island Community Food Bank released its annual report Monday which shows that hunger levels in Rhode Island have not changed since the height of the recession.
The report states that the economic recovery has yet to catch up to low-income families who rely on food programs. The Food Bank says in its report most of the people who receive food assistance are living at or below the poverty level.
“Even though the unemployment rate is coming down, we’re concerned about thousands of Rhode Island families and individuals who are left behind in this economic recovery,” said RI Food Bank Chief Executive Andrew Schiff.
Earlier on Monday, the Food Bank reported participation in its programs has nearly doubled the number of people each month compared with seven years ago but food donations have dropped significantly.
Its statewide network of food pantries serves about 63,000 people each month, compared to 33,000 people per month in 2007.The bank received 6 million pounds of donated food in 2014, versus 7.2 million pounds in 2007, and is buying food to meet the need.
The food bank released its annual report Monday. Chief executive officer Andrew Schiff says he wants state leaders to realize it’s a challenge, and the organization needs additional funding.
