ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A new report says more people in New York State are going into debt to afford groceries, especially families with children.
Half of the people surveyed by “No Kid Hungry New York” said they’ve taken on more debt due to food costs in the past 12 months. One in four reported using “buy now, pay later” plans to cover grocery bills.
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Out of the people surveyed, 67% reported having to choose between buying food and buying other essential items. For families with children, that number jumps to 74%. You can see the summary of the report here.
Food insecurity in the Rochester region
Nearly 161,000 people experienced food insecurity in 2023 across the 10-county region around Rochester, according to the latest “Map the Meal Gap” report from Feeding America. That marks the region’s highest rate of food insecurity since 2013, at nearly 13%.
If you need food assistance, you can see Foodlink’s interactive map here. Foodlink, based in Rochester, serves as a food bank for hundreds of food pantries and meal programs across the 10-county region.
People facing food insecurity can apply for federal assistance through SNAP. However, some new work requirements are now in effect. Able-bodied adults without dependents will need to work or volunteer to receive SNAP benefits next time they recertify, because of changes in federal policy. Some people are exempt. You can learn more about the work requirements here.
For Related Stories: No Kid Hungry New York Food insecurity