Food insecurity is a challenge that affects communities across the country—and the St. Croix Valley is no exception. While this area is often viewed as prosperous, the reality is that many households quietly struggle to put enough food on the table. Hunger is hidden, yet it impacts millions of individuals and families every year.

What is Food Insecurity?

Food insecurity is more than just running out of groceries. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines food insecurity as “a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food.” In other words, it’s the uncertainty of not knowing if you’ll have enough food today, tomorrow, or next week.

Here in Washington County, this uncertainty is real. According to the 2024 Washington County Community Status Report, 36% of Washington County’s respondents indicated they often or sometimes worry about food running out before they have the money to buy more. For families, this might mean skipping meals to stretch food further. For seniors, it could mean deciding between paying for medication or buying groceries. For others, it means relying on lower-cost, less nutritious food to get by.

What Contributes to Food Insecurity?

The causes of food insecurity are complex and interconnected. Rising housing costs, limited access to affordable healthcare, and increased costs to everyday essentials all put pressure on household budgets.

• Housing Costs: In Washington County, 18% of homeowners and 40% of renters spend over 30% of their income on housing, making them cost-burdened (2024 Community Status Report).
• Healthcare Costs: According to the 2024 Washington County Status Report, 21% of adults found it difficult to pay for health insurance and 7% of adults skipped a dose of medication because they could not afford it.
• Cost of Living: The World Economic Forum reports that prices have increased 74% since 2000. While consumer goods like toys and electronics have gotten cheaper, essentials like healthcare, housing, and education have become dramatically more expensive.

How Does Valley Outreach Help?

Valley Outreach provides immediate support while also working towards long-term stability. Every day, people from Washington County and beyond come to us for help.

We start with food because everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy groceries. That’s just the beginning. We also provide clothing and personalized support services to help address the interconnected issues tied to food insecurity. These wraparound services give people the tools and resources they need to move toward greater stability.

One client shared, “They took care of me when I was in active addiction and trying get into treatment. I still get help there with food once in a while. I’ve learned to accept help because rent, bills, and food are expensive.” Stories like this remind us that food is only part of the picture, but it’s an important starting point for building stability.

How You Can Help Locally

The good news is that no one has to face this alone. Together, we can make a difference:

• Donate: Every contribution helps provide fresh, healthy food for neighbors in need.
• Volunteer: Your time and energy directly support families in our community.
• Advocate: Share what you learn with others to help build awareness.

At Valley Outreach, we believe everyone deserves access to good food and support during hard times. With the help of our community, we’re working toward a future where fewer families have to worry about their next meal.