Hunger in America: An In-Depth Look

Despite America’s great wealth, there are still millions of Americans who are classified by government statistics as "food insecure." More than seven million people use emergency food assistance every week. This paradox of hunger amid plenty is a threat to our nation’s prosperity and our collective well-being.

In 2006, Mathematica completed the largest and most comprehensive examination to date of Americans who seek emergency food relief and the charitable network that serves them. The study examined the food assistance provided by agencies affiliated with America’s Second Harvest food bank network. It compared the prevalence and nature of food insecurity over time and described characteristics of people and households who use the network. It included several rounds of surveys to collect information at the national, state, and local levels.

Findings from the 2006 survey include:

• More than 25 million low-income people received emergency food assistance through Second Harvest’s network in 2006. 
• Recipients represented a broad cross-section of America. Nearly two-thirds were women, more than nine million were children, and three million were elderly. Approximately 39 percent were white and 38 percent were African American. Nearly 36 percent of households had at least one adult who was working. Twelve percent of all recipients were homeless.
• Most recipients made difficult choices between food and other necessities.  
• Participation in government support or food assistance programs was limited, although most were eligible to participate. For those receiving monthly food stamps, benefits lasted an average of 2.5 weeks.  
• Private charities were providing high-quality services to emergency food recipients.  
• Most of the organizations providing assistance in the network were faith-based. 
• Volunteers were crucial to food pantry and kitchen activities.

Read results from Mathematica's 2001 survey.

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