Legislative Emergency Board funds will help to address rising food insecurity in rural, urban and suburban communities as food costs rise

SALEM, OR — The Oregon Legislature’s Joint Emergency Board today approved a $5 million investment in emergency food assistance through the Oregon Food Bank Network — a critical allocation as an increasing number of Oregonians seek support from area free food markets, pantries and meal sites. The measure will ensure fresh produce, dairy, protein and pantry staples remain available as rising food and housing prices compound ongoing pandemic impacts in local communities.

Oregon Food Bank released the following statement from CEO Susannah Morgan regarding the Joint Emergency Board action:

“There is no doubt that the rising cost of groceries and housing is worsening food insecurity here in Oregon and across the country. We’ve seen a sharp rise in need for support across our network of free food markets, pantries and meal sites, along with vital government programs like SNAP and WIC. For families struggling to make ends meet, every dollar counts — and the Emergency Board’s investment will have a real and immediate impact on people’s ability to put food on the table.

“Today’s Emergency Board action brings critical support to the millions of Oregonians whose lives have been destabilized by the pandemic and global economic disruptions. And yet we know this investment and the upcoming boost to federal food purchase dollars are ultimately stopgap measures. We need bold policy change at all levels to address the root causes of hunger and ensure everyone in our communities has access to the food we need to thrive.”

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Media Contact: Jason A Stephany, 503.972.2996, jstephany@oregonfoodbank.org