2010 Hunger Study results of the Texas Panhandle released

Today, the High Plains Food Bank released the findings of its 2010 Hunger in the Texas Panhandle study, in coordination with Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization. The methodology incorporated into the 2010 study includes data collected from February through June 2009. The High Plains Food Bank conducted face-to-face interviews with over 300 people seeking emergency food at food pantries, soup kitchens and other emergency feeding programs, as well as interviews with more than 126 agencies that provide food assistance.

The results are staggering: 56 percent of people who receive emergency food assistance through the Food Bank's agencies are food insecure - meaning each has experienced hunger at least once in the past month. This is a startling 15 percent increase from 2005. Among households with children, 67 percent surveyed are food insecure. This is an astounding 31 percent increase since 2005. Of clients surveyed, 56 percent had to choose between paying for food and paying for utilities/bills.

The results of the hunger study are overwhelming. We need to come together more than ever to help fight hunger in the Texas Panhandle. To review the summary of results, please click here.