The Salvation Army in the Shoals area is anticipating one of its busiest holiday seasons yet as inflation drives up need for assistance.
While gas prices have fallen significantly from the record highs seen during the summer, food prices keep increasing on top of already high costs.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the consumer price index for food in the United States’ southern region, including Alabama, rose 0.7% in August, bringing the total 12-month increase to 11.5% compared to 2021.
The Salvation Army said it has already seen a greater need for food as people struggle to cover their basic costs. Human Resources Coordinator Alli Bevis told WAFF 48 that the Salvation Army has been handing out food bags daily, which is unusual and shows how dire the financial situation is getting for many people.
She said aside from food, people have been reaching out to social workers for rent and utility assistance appointments, which now have a waiting list several weeks long.
The Salvation Army leaders are confident they won’t run out of food before the holidays, but they are banking on local food drives to bolster their supply.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email daniel.taylor@1819news.com.
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