As costs rise, people's need grows

While I was watching football on Sunday night, the upside-down reality of today came into focus through a television commercial.

Feed the Children, founded in 1979, shared its mission to provide food, nutrition education, clean water and essential resources to children and families. Its message was simple: “Each $1 of your tax-deductible gift provides $8 worth of food and life essentials to children facing hunger because every child deserves food.”

The term "food insecurity" devalues the grim reality of waking up hungry day after day for children and for parents struggling to provide for their family across the United States and, yes, here in Wheaton, Carol Stream, Glen Ellyn and West Chicago.

As Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) changes took effect starting in April 2026 and as they continue, 5 million Americans, including 1 million children, are being impacted. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act's $186 billion in SNAP cuts through 2034 begs the question of how the future of food assistance will meet this stunning need. Those with greater means help keep local food pantry shelves stocked. How will donors sustain that as we manage higher food, gasoline, medical care and everyday costs?

What did President Donald Trump say? It’s just for a “little while.”

Inflation is at 3.7%, and the cost of food has increased by more than 4% since Trump took office in January 2025, according to CBS News. Real numbers. Real choices. Real pain.

We’re fortunate in DuPage County to have so many who share their wealth or decide to give more than they might be able to afford. Sometimes, need is hidden behind a mask of “I’ll be OK.” Look a little deeper into our community as reductions in force happen and people increase the strain on services.

As hunger increases and resources diminish, our hands are asked to open more and more and for longer.

Erica Nelson, Wheaton