More than 15 percent of families in Indiana struggle to afford enough food according to a new report. For households with children in Indiana, the rate is even higher at 18.9 percent.
The Food Research and Action Center compiled the survey data and Feeding Indiana’s Hungry Executive Director Emily Weikert Bryant says not much has changed.
"Because the programs that exist to help people who have difficulty getting enough food for their families have been pretty static, they have not changed and they’re also counter cyclical," Weikert Bryant says.
The higher the levels of poverty and underemployment, the higher the levels of enrollment in programs like SNAP.
Weikert Bryant says the analysis can help direct resources.
"With this particular research, it shows us how many folks are having difficulty buying enough food. What that tells us is they’re lacking resources and maybe to some extent access," says Weikert Bryant.
SNAP and other food assistance is up for renewal through the Farm Bill that is in a U.S. House conference committee.
The report details metro areas, four in Indiana, and finds Hoosiers in Indianapolis and Louisville areas are most at risk for hunger.
Overall Indiana ranks 20th in food insecurity measures.
