SPOKANE, Wash. – The Salvation Army saw an uptick in families seeking assistance in the past year as food prices slightly increased and the economy remained relatively stable.
According to The Salvation Army, the number of families seeking food boxes increased by 777 families in the past year, from 2,705 in July 2023 to 3,482 in July 2024.
Meals being offered to people experiencing homelessness also increased over that same time frame from 429 go-bags being handed out to 511.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, food prices were projected to increase by 2.3% over the course of this year, with lowered food price increases expected for 2025.
Many indicators such as GDP growth and unemployment rates show the American economy has remained relatively strong in the past year, though the US Bureau of Labor Statistic’s August jobs report
Donations to the Salvation Army can be made on the organization’s website, which also contains information on where families in need can find assistance.
