URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – A new report from Feeding America states that child food insecurity exists in every county with rates nearing 50% in some communities.

The findings come from Map the Meal Gap, Feeding America’s annual study tracking hunger at the local level. Map the Meal Gap is currently in its 15th year and provides county-by-county insights into food insecurity and food costs. The report builds on USDA data showing over 47 million Americans including 14 million children have experienced food insecurity in 2023—the highest in over a decade.

The Eastern Illinois Foodbank (EIF) reports that in its 21-county service area, more than 143,000 people are food insecure. About 40,000 of them are children, which is about one in six kids.

Food insecurity increased in every county within EIF’s region. Here are some local numbers:

• Lowest rates: Piatt (9.9%), Woodford (10.3%)

• Highest rates: Coles (16.5%), Clay (15.8%), Vermilion (15.5%)

Even counties with traditionally lower poverty levels, like McLean and Woodford, saw rises in hunger.

• Child Hunger Is Widespread: Over 39,000 children in EIF’s service area don’t have consistent access to nutritious food.

• Rural Areas Are Hit Hardest: Nearly 9 out of 10 counties with high food insecurity are in rural areas.

• Millions Don’t Qualify for Help:

  • Nationally, 2 in 5 people facing hunger may not qualify for SNAP (food stamps).

  • In Eastern Illinois, 44% of food-insecure people fall outside income limits for SNAP.

  • Around 29% of food-insecure children may not qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.

• The national food budget shortfall—what people say they need to afford enough food—totals $32 billion.

• On average, that’s $22.37 more per person per week.

• Local counties are feeling the strain:

  • Woodford County’s weekly shortfall: $26.16

  • Average meal cost in McLean: $3.66

  • In Woodford: $4.19

Feeding America and EIF are not just reporting on the issue—they’re working on solutions. The organizations are:

• Investing in innovative programs to improve food access

• Advocating for stronger legislation to support struggling families

• Tackling root causes like health, cost of living, and employment barriers

You can help fight hunger by:

• Visiting eifoodbank.org to donate or volunteer

• Exploring food insecurity in your area at map.feedingamerica.org