As we approach Halloween, a time of haunted houses, eerie decorations, and spooky fun, there’s a more alarming reality lurking beneath the surface in our community—one that doesn’t disappear when the costumes come off. Thousands of families face the frightening reality of food insecurity every day – struggling to afford nutritious food for their families. The scary truth about food insecurity is that it affects more people than many of us realize. 

The percentage of households in Fairfax County who are struggling to afford groceries has gone up – increasing from 24% last year to 27% in 2024. The increase is staggering and speaks to the struggles many of our neighbor’s face. This increase is partially due to the drop in purchasing power over the last several years – someone earning an average wage today can afford 9.5% less than they could just four years ago. Food is just one necessary expense in our households – when you consider the rising costs of rent and other essentials as well, it is easy to see why families are struggling. 

While food insecurity is detrimental to everyone – the effects of hunger can be especially difficult for children. In Fairfax County Public Schools alone, almost 60,000 students qualify for free and reduced school lunches. For many of these children, school meals may be the only consistent source of nutrition they receive. This data highlights the critical role school staff play in supporting children – helping facilitate programs like Power Packs which provide elementary children with weekend meals. 

Last fiscal year, Food for Others distributed over 3.8 million pounds of food to families across Northern Virginia, many of whom live in Fairfax County. As we approach the holiday season, a notoriously expensive time of year, we often experience an increase in need. Each November the demand for food assistance spikes and, as we prepare to meet this need, we need your help in feeding our neighbors. Every food drive and each donation helps a family who is struggling. Much of the food we receive from October through December helps support Food for Others’ programs year-round. As you prepare for the holiday season, stay tuned as we share ways to support Food for Others and help make our work possible. 

The truth about food insecurity is scary – but we can solve hunger in our community by working together. Your support is vital in helping us ensure that no one in our community has to fear an empty plate.