Obama Raises Alarm as Over 47 Million Americans Struggle to Afford Food Amid Rising Living Costs
Former United States President Barack Obama has expressed concern over the growing number of Americans struggling to afford food, warning that rising living costs are worsening economic inequality across the country.
Obama raised the alarm on Friday while commenting on new data showing that more than 47 million Americans are currently facing food insecurity the highest level recorded in over a decade.
According to recent reports from U.S. food aid agencies, inflation, stagnant wages, and increasing housing and healthcare costs have pushed millions of low- and middle-income families into financial hardship, forcing many to rely on food banks and community kitchens for survival.
In a statement, Obama described the development as “deeply troubling,” urging policymakers, businesses, and civil society to take urgent action to tackle the worsening hunger crisis.
“No one living in the richest country on Earth should have to worry about where their next meal will come from,” Obama said.
The fact that tens of millions of Americans are struggling to put food on the table is a call to action not just for government, but for all of us.”
He emphasised the need for stronger social safety nets, fair wages, and affordable access to essential goods and services to ensure that working families are not left behind.
The former president also highlighted the efforts of the Obama Foundation and its partners in supporting community-based food programs and empowering local organisations to fight hunger nationwide.
“We’ve seen that when communities come together when local leaders, volunteers, and organisations unite real change is possible,” he added.
Economic analysts say the surge in food insecurity reflects broader challenges in the U.S. economy, as inflation continues to drive up prices for groceries, rent, and utilities.
The situation has prompted renewed debate over federal assistance programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and calls for expanded funding to support vulnerable households.
Food banks across several U.S. states have reported record demand in recent months, with many families saying they can no longer afford basic groceries despite holding full-time jobs.
Obama’s warning adds to growing public pressure on policymakers to address the rising cost of living and ensure that economic recovery efforts reach every American, not just the wealthy few.
