Study Reveals Elevated Levels of Food Insecurity

In May, GBFB released its third annual statewide study on food insecurity in Massachusetts, “Opportunities to Improve Food Equity & Access in Massachusetts: Ending Hunger—Together,” in collaboration with Mass General Brigham (MGB) and supported by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

Between November 2022 and January 2023, researchers engaged more than 3,000 residents, learning 32% of households face food insecurity due, in part, to the inflated cost of living. Many found it difficult to find affordable and healthy food, often making choices between food and other expenses.

“Buying fruits and veggies has gotten so much more expensive. Trying to eat healthy has become very difficult.”
-White working mother utilizing SNAP, Middlesex County

This year’s data also indicates that 1 in 3 children experienced food insecurity. Those in households where the adult identified as Black, Hispanic or LGBTQ+ experienced even higher rates.

With your support, and using this data, GBFB will work to:
• Increase affordability of nutritious and culturally responsive food for all.
• Decrease stigma and increase participation in state and federal programs.
• Further food access investments in large, diverse communities.
• Promote economic opportunities to address root causes of hunger.
• Further improve the experiences of those served by hunger organizations and assistance programs.

It takes a team to feed our community—Thank you for helping us to care for our neighbors.