RI FOOD BANK Releases Status Report on Hunger

The report reveals that pending cuts to assistance programs threaten the safety nets that support Rhode Islanders facing hunger. In addition, problems with UHIP implementation leave many without benefits.

The annual update on hunger in Rhode Island details how the pending cuts proposed by Congress will affect the state’s safety net including SNAP, WIC and school meal programs. Organizations like the Food Bank and its member agencies will not be able to meet the increased demand for assistance without an influx of support. Rhode Islanders are especially vulnerable as a result of the continued problems with the state’s benefits enrollment system (UHIP).
Food stamp enrollment has dropped more than 12 percent, even though more people report going without enough food.