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The Trump administration’s cuts and changes to federal food benefits are driving record need in many communities, dozens of food banks told NBC News in a survey. |
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Skyrocketing food and fuel costs are stretching the budgets of both food banks and the communities they serve. |
Lina Jaradat for NBC News |
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Oct. 9, 2026, 5:00 AM EDT |
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In North Dakota, a food bank gets panicked calls weekly from anti-hunger groups whose shelves are nearly bare. In Oregon, a food bank is spending more than ever on diesel to transport food, leaving less in the budget for food itself. And in Maine, so many people now rely on a food bank that its distribution centers have started limiting visits, rationing milk, meat and produce.
Across America, there is trouble at food banks, the nonprofit networks that supply front-line food pantries, shelters and soup kitchens. Hobbled by some of the same economic challenges as the people seeking their assistance, including skyrocketing costs of groceries and fuel, food bank officials say they are nearing a breaking point — and many blame federal budget cuts. |
Is your food bank serving more or fewer people per month than last year? |
Each dot equals one food bank |
Source: NBC News survey of 48 food banks across 35 states and Washington, D.C. |
Graphic: Javier Zarracina / NBC News |
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