---

The Longville Area Food Shelf recently conducted surveys of its current users to discover what their current situations are regarding hunger. Ninety-five households completed the survey last month. The ages of the participants ranged from 20 years old to 88 years old, with the average age being 50.9 years. Thirty of the respondents were over the age of 60, and six were over 80 years old.

The households represented in the survey include 33 senior citizens (over age 65), 181 adults, and 133 children. Twenty six individuals are employed full time, 28 part time, and 5 were recently laid off - thus continuing to show that we serve the working poor and the elderly predominantly.

Thirty five percent report suffering from food insecurity - defined as not being sure where their next meal is coming from. Forty-four percent report having to skip meals an average of 6.4 times a month. Two respondents stated they "always" have to skip meals to stretch their food supply. Fourteen percent (representing 23 family members) reported actually having to go hungry an average of 6.3 days each month due to having no food available. Two families reported that the adults often will go hungry so that their children will have food.

Forty-five percent reported having at least family member in their household in poor health. Seventeen percent have to choose between paying for food or rent. Nineteen percent reported having no health care coverage. An additional 4 stated that not the whole family is covered. And, an astounding fifty-six percent have to choose between paying for food or paying for gas for a car.

The Food shelf is grateful for all in the community who continue to support its work, volunteer and join in our battle to fight local hunger.[[In-content Ad]]

---