Sen. Dick Durbin warns of food insecurity as cuts loom 'People who need this most are virtually invisible'

Senator Dick Durbin expressed deep concern over rising food insecurity in Illinois due to impending cuts at the U. S. Department of Agriculture and reductions to critical assistance programs like SNAP and Medicaid. At the West Town Nourishing Hope warehouse, he underscored the struggles of families who are often unseen and facing hunger. With nearly 6,000 jobs at the USDA in jeopardy and cuts to programs that provide an average of just $6.

16 per day, the threat to food security is alarming. Durbin emphasized, “We shouldn’t be considering a program that makes America hungry again,” as he pledged to fight these cuts in Washington. Nourishing Hope has experienced a 35% increase in service demand without benefit reductions, highlighting the growing need for food assistance. The organization’s interim CEO warned that enduring cuts to SNAP would pose a significant challenge for their operations. Many clients depend on SNAP, and the rising costs of food due to USDA cuts could hinder their ability to provide support.

The urgency of the situation calls for immediate action to ensure families receive the basic necessities for survival.