ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – More than half of Southwest Virginia households experience food insecurity, leading the state in hunger rates as regional communities also navigate a sharp rise in stolen grocery benefits.
According to a recent report, 55% of households in Southwest Virginia lack consistent access to sufficient food for an active, healthy life, compared to 42% statewide. Among Southwest Virginia households with children, the rate reaches 70%. Researchers point to grocery inflation as the primary factor driving the numbers.
The reliance on assistance comes as localities across the region report spikes in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits stolen through checkout card skimmers…