More and more families once considered middle class are joining the ranks of the working poor. New census data reveal the still-struggling economy – combined with rising living costs – has pushed a record number of Americans into poverty. Nearly one in two people are now classified as having low income or living in poverty, a total of 146.4 million people, or 48% of the U.S. population. Today, one in nine people in Eastern Massachusetts are facing hunger on a regular basis. For children, that number is almost double. GBFB is taking important and innovative steps to reach more people who have been hurt by this economy and reductions to government safety net programs. Through programs like our new school-based pantry and mobile pantry distributions, we are working to end hunger here. With your help, everyday we’re getting closer to reaching our goal to provide at least one meal a day to everyone in need in our community. THANK YOU!