Food Insecurity Rises in DC Area Amid Federal Job Cuts, SNAP and Medicaid Losses

Food insecurity in the Greater Washington, D.C. area is worsening, driven largely by federal layoffs and cuts to social safety net programs under President Donald Trump's administration. The Capital Area Food Bank reports that over 820,000 people are facing food insecurity, with an increase of about 75,000 individuals each year, disproportionately affecting Black and brown families and those tied to federal employment. Nearly 41% of households connected to federal workers who lost jobs report food insecurity, with many forced to reduce or skip meals and draw down savings or retirement funds to cover basic needs. Cuts to programs like SNAP and Medicaid are exacerbating the problem, with families losing an average of $187 in monthly food benefits, equivalent to about 40 meals. The regional hunger crisis reflects broader economic impacts from government downsizing and reduced social spending, reversing gains made during pandemic relief efforts. Despite these challenges, specific governmental measures to address the rising food insecurity remain unclear.