Editorial focuses on Houston’s hungry
by Brenna Spurgeon
Rising commodity prices across the world have led to substantial media coverage of the food struggles facing developing nations.
A recent editorial in the Chronicle, “A quiet crisis” suggests Houstonians should pay attention to those struggling in their own community.
Everyone has noticed the price increases, yet lower-income families are hit harder because they typically spend a higher percentage of income on food staples. In addition, those with school-aged children are now responsible for the meals that were offered through free or reduced-price meal programs during the school year. In the 18-county Houston area, over a third of hungry families have had to choose between food and medical care.
Brian Green, president of the Houston Food Bank, cites the need for volunteers to help distribute the donated food. There is an increasing number of people using food assistance, and if there are not enough volunteers donations must be turned down.