Food stamp use hits all-time high in Ohio

There are nearly one in 10 Ohioans receiving food stamps. It's the highest number in the state's history. Local agencies say the number seems to be growing in our area.

There are nearly one in 10 Ohioans receiving food stamps. It's the highest number in the state's history. Local agencies say the number seems to be growing in our area.

The people we spoke with say they believe the problem is only going to get worse and unemployment is to blame. People who receive food stamps are often stereotyped as people who don't want to work. The Shawn Reid of Lucas County Job and Family Services says that's not true.

Reid says, "There's a misconception that people who apply for food stamps or receive food stamps don't want to work or don't want to have a job. Lucas County residents are known as being hard working people but it has impacted the middle class differently than it has in the past."

Northwest Ohioans are struggling. Families are being affected by plant closings and layoffs. Factor in the rising cost of gas and groceries and the outlook is grim.

Experts say on average food stamps are now providing less than two weeks of groceries. Food pantries and soup kitchens are now reporting record demands.

James Caldwell is the president and CEO of Northwest Ohio Food Bank. He says the rising number of people applying for assistance always affects area food banks. What are not normal are the types of people who are now asking for help.

"What we are starting to see now are individuals, who were once contributors to the food bank, now beginning to access some of that network that we serve because they've been unemployed either temporarily or a permanent basis."

If you need some help putting food on the table you can come to Job and Family Services on Monroe Street and apply for assistance.

Get more Local »

• Comment Now
• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•