The rising cost of food is making it harder than ever for many Rhode Island families to put fresh, healthy food on the table.
A recent Providence Journal article highlighted some sobering data from the RI Life Index:
“No matter how you slice it, food insecurity – the inability to reliably access nutritious food – is a growing reality for many Rhode Islanders. Between 2020 and 2024, the number of Rhode Island households reporting food insecurity more than doubled, from 16% to 38%…”
The article also reports:
“More than one-fourth of Rhode Islanders bought fewer healthy foods and vegetables due to rising prices… Half of those surveyed said higher prices have resulted in them altogether buying less food.”
These numbers are a reminder that fighting hunger in RI requires sustained investment, collaboration, and a commitment to making food access a priority in the face of rising inflation.
At Farm Fresh RI, we’re working to make fresh, local food more accessible and affordable for everyone. Through our Bonus Bucks program, SNAP shoppers at participating farmers markets receive a dollar-for-dollar match, doubling their purchasing power for fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
But programs like Bonus Bucks are just one part of the solution. We need continued public investment and community support to ensure that Rhode Islanders can access the healthy food they need—and that local farmers can continue to grow it.
The need is growing. So is the importance of this work.
Learn more about Bonus Bucks and how you can support local food access.
