MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) – South Florida residents lined up before sunrise in Miami Beach for a free food distribution event hosted by a local organization.<\/p>\n
Families struggling to make ends meet say these events can help stretch a tight budget a little further.<\/p>\n
Volunteers for Feeding South Florida loaded vehicles and handed out produce, poultry and canned goods to residents.<\/p>\n
One of those in line was resident Leonardo Gonzalez. He said making the trip isn\u2019t always easy, but saving money wherever possible matters as the cost of everyday necessities continues to rise.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith inflation, this is a rare thing, and it\u2019s a really great opportunity. Personally, I would suggest it for everybody, no matter how poor or rich you are,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He said even a small amount saved on groceries can go a long way.<\/p>\n
\u201cA lot of people say that $85 is not enough, and that\u2019s the sad part,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He was one of many residents across the city who say it is increasingly difficult for families to keep up with rising prices.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith inflation and the cost of food and supermarkets, It\u2019s not easy for a lot of people to live,\u201d said Gonzalez.<\/p>\n
On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates for the first time in roughly three years. The move aims to counter inflation, but families at the Miami Beach event already feeling the pinch in their pockets say they\u2019re still paying more for everyday necessities.<\/p>\n
In a statement to 7News, a Feeding South Florida spokesperson said the organization\u2019s services are:<\/p>\n
\u201c\u2026especially important as families face higher costs for groceries, housing, utilities, transportation and other everyday essentials.\u201d<\/p>\n