The Rising Cost of Living in Northeastern NC

Families, seniors, and veterans are feeling the pressure of rising costs of food, housing, utilities and medicine in 2025. Across the 15 counties that Food Bank of the Albemarle serves, 1 in 7 of our neighbors (over 43,000 individuals including 14,000 children) face the uncertainty of food insecurity.

The Food Bank distributes food through a network of 100 partners and 155 programs to provide food and resources to all in need. Thanks to donations through the retail donation program, our local farmers, growers, and packers, and the generosity of public support, we are able to meet this growing need in the communities we serve.

Ella is one of our neighbors who said she visits our pantry throughout the year, and utilizes the food she gets for her family.

Ella’s Story

“When I was out of work, we relied on SNAP (food stamps),” Ella says. “The benefit wasn’t enough to feed our family of four, so we really appreciate being able to come to the food pantry.”

“Now that I’m working, SNAP still helps, but as my income goes up, our benefits go down. It (SNAP) fills in the gaps through the weeks when we don’t have much food left. The amount we received wasn’t feeding us through the month.  My rent is increasing and my SNAP benefits are dropping lower. Even though I’m working more, it still just seems like we can never get ahead.”

“I still have to pay bills. I do what I can. If I get a couple extra dollars and can put food in the house that’s great, but the food pantry is a great resource and helps fill in the gaps. I work every day, just trying to get by. We really do appreciate the Food Pantry.”

Your Support Makes all the Difference

Your gifts to the food bank provide critical financial support during times when sources of funding can be unpredictable.

Currently, some USDA food programs are paused while others are canceled, broadening the meal gap in our community. Your gift will support our effort to source food to replace these missing meals.