Food Insecurity Surges Among Kansas Children, According to New Report
Topeka, KS – A newly released report from Kansas Action for Children (KAC) reveals a troubling rise in food insecurity among Kansas children, with all 105 counties experiencing increases between 2021 and 2022. The report, part of the 2024 Kansas Kids Count Data Book, highlights that one in five children faced food insecurity in 2022, marking the most significant surge in a decade.
The report points to the termination of pandemic-era programs, which had expanded eligibility for government assistance, as a key factor contributing to the nearly six percent increase in food insecurity. Northeastern Kansas has been particularly affected, grappling with high food prices and limited access to nutritious food options.
John Wilson, KAC’s president and CEO, emphasizes the urgent need for decision-makers to address these issues. He notes, “In 2021, we saw how pandemic-era programs improved many outcomes for Kansas kids. But with those programs being temporary, so was much of that progress.”
The report reveals concerning trends in education as well, indicating a decline in reading proficiency among 8th graders and a significant number of children falling behind in math. While high school graduation rates are at a decade high, nearly half of Kansas children relied on free or reduced-price lunch programs in 2022—a warning sign of ongoing struggles.
Despite a decrease in the overall child poverty rate to 13%, stark income disparities persist, particularly affecting Black households, which earn almost half of what white households do. With housing costs escalating, the number of families spending more than 30% of their income on rent surged, increasing the financial strain on households already facing food insecurity.
KAC advocates for proactive measures, including tax relief and housing protections, to alleviate these burdens and support Kansas families.
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