WVU in the News: Food insecurity concerns escalate during COVID-19 pandemic
Thousands out of work and local food sources are closed as the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbates one of West Virginia's most pressing issues.
Schools are still delivering boxed lunches to families throughout our area.
"One in seven individuals struggle with hunger. One in five children struggle with hunger," said Gabri Bonazzo, the communications coordinator of the Mountaineer Food Bank.
Before the pandemic, West Virginia suffered a food insecurity rate of 15.3%.
Low-income families are finding themselves stuck. Bus services are suspended, local restaurants are closing and the only available options are out of reach.
"They will find that they either have to walk to places where they can get food or just figure out a whole new way to ensure that they have food in the house. Essentially, the places where they live become places that they can not escape from," said Dr. Lauri Andress, assistant professor with the WVU School of Public Health.