Hunger Numbers Up, We Need SNAP!

This week’s newsletter looks at the increase in hunger in Montgomery County, we say goodbye to a great co-worker and invite you to the Ohio Community Development Corporation Association Regional Meeting, hosted by HHI. You can read the newsletter here (7 minute read). Be sure to sign up by emailing mark@hallhungerinitiative.org

The unprecedented cuts to SNAP approved in the House budget last week could not come at a worse time for those who are struggling to feed their family. New numbers just released for Montgomery County show a staggering 119,111 people are food insecure, 15.9% of the population. That number includes 28,930 children, almost one in four of our community’s children facing hunger issues.  This is a significant increase from the 14.6% rate in 2022.

These figures are from Map the Meal Gap, an annual study conducted by Feeding America, of which The Foodbank is a partner. Collected in 2023, this data was analyzed in 2024 and released in May 2025. We know the need has continued to increase. The Ohio Association of Foodbanks reported more visitors between July and December 2024 than any other six month period in its 35 years of operation.

Last week’s House bill cut more than $270 billion from SNAP, shifted federal costs to the state, and added unreasonable work expectations. Along with cuts to local farmers, Medicaid and other vital services, this bill adds hardship to those who are struggling.

“What’s included in the bill text that came out of the House Agriculture Committee would have devastating impacts for the first line of defense against hunger in our country,” said Joree Novotny, Executive Director of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks.

There is still an opportunity to make changes in the US Senate. The next week is critical! Contact our senators and let them know Ohioans support SNAP!

Sen. Bernie Moreno 202-224-2315 https://www.moreno.senate.gov/share-your-opinion/

Sen. Jon Husted 202-224-3353 https://www.husted.senate.gov/contact/