Pantries prepare for rising food prices

Article courtesy of Green Bay Gazette via The Rundown

Food prices are expected to rise next year, and that may mean fewer donations to local food pantries.

“If families pay more money to put food on their table, they have less money to donate,” said Terri Gajeski, who along with her husband Russ coordinates operations for the Community Cupboard food pantry in Denmark. “It’s definitely going to affect our families.”

Above-normal price increases for food are anticipated next year, due in large part to this year’s Midwest drought that damaged corn, apples, cherries and other crops. The drought also impacted the cost of livestock feed, and prompted more than 20 counties in southern Wisconsin to be named primary natural-disaster areas, a move that allowed farmers to be eligible for low-interest emergency loans.

Food prices normally rise 2 to 3 percent a year. In 2013, grocery prices are expected to rise 3 to 4 percent , with beef to increase up to 5 percent and dairy products up to 4.5 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Restaurant prices may go up 2.5 to 3.5 percent.

This year, food prices are estimated to increase 2.5 to 3.5 percent .

It all likely adds up to less food for people who need help Gajeski said.

“I definitely expect to see (the number of clients increase and us probably going to give less because we just are not going to have the money or the resources to stretch,” she said.

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