Inflation hits the table: More Lubbock families seek food assistance

By Kiley Phillips, kilphill@ttu.edu

Lubbock County continues to struggle with food insecurity, as rising inflation and economic challenges push more families to seek assistance from local food banks. 

According to Feeding America, 17% of Lubbock County residents experienced food insecurity in 2022, meaning they lacked reliable access to food. Among them were 26,340 children. 

The South Plains Food Bank, which serves 19 counties across West Texas, has reported a 25% increase in families seeking assistance compared to last year. On average, the food bank distributes 85,000 meals weekly through its network of 108 churches and agencies.

“With our buying power, we're able to provide three meals for every dollar, which is huge,” Director of Development, Mindy Weaver said. “You and I can't even go to the grocery store with $1.00 and buy a can of corn.”

Rising grocery costs have contributed to the issue, with prices in the region up nearly 7% from 2023, according to the latest consumer price index. Nationwide, inflation remains a concern, with rates reaching 2.8% as of February 2025.

To combat food insecurity, the South Plains Food Bank received $1.2 million in funding from the USDA through the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program, which helped provide approximately 3.6 million meals. However, the need continues to grow.

“We rely heavily on volunteers,” Weaver added. “Last year, we logged 50,000 volunteers. Not a lot of people know that we serve 19 counties and that we have seven different programs.”

The food bank emphasizes that recipients receive more than just a small box of supplies. 

“Whenever our neighbors come and pick up food, they’re receiving about 150 pounds of food” Weaver said. “They get a dry box, a frozen box with protein and frozen fruits, and fresh produce.” 

Through partnerships with local grocery stores such as HEB, United, and Walmart, South Plains Food Bank also collects fresh produce that is nearing the end of its shelf life, ensuring it reaches families in need rather than going to waste.

Education remains key in addressing food insecurity and ensuring the community understands the available resources.

 “I think it's just educating people on what we do, how we do it, and why it's important that we continue our mission,” Weaver said. 

With nearly four million Texans struggling with hunger, including 20% of the state’s children, organizations like the South Plains Food Bank play a critical role in addressing food insecurity in the region.