Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Rising tariffs on food, packaging, and transportation materials are driving up grocery costs across the country. These price increases are putting added pressure on food banks like Long Island Cares, which work tirelessly to feed families facing hunger. Learn how tariffs are impacting food prices, what this means for our community, and how you can help fight food insecurity.

What are tariffs and how do they impact food prices?

Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods, including many foods. When tariffs rise, the cost of importing goods increases, and those costs are often passed on to consumers. This means higher prices for groceries and essential household items.

How do rising tariffs affect food banks?

Food banks like Long Island Cares rely on affordable food purchases, donations, and partnerships with retailers. As tariffs drive up food costs, donations decrease and purchasing power is reduced, making it harder to meet the growing demand for hunger relief.

Why do tariffs increase food insecurity?

When food prices rise due to tariffs, low-income families have a harder time affording groceries, even with assistance from programs like SNAP. This leads to increased reliance on food banks and emergency food programs, straining local resources.

How are tariffs connected to SNAP and other food assistance programs?

Tariffs increase the overall cost of food, which reduces the value of SNAP benefits and other food assistance programs. Families end up with less purchasing power, meaning they cannot stretch their benefits as far as they could before.

How is Long Island Cares responding to the challenges of rising tariffs?

We are advocating for policies that keep food affordable, while working to secure additional donations and resources for our food bank. We’re also raising public awareness about how tariffs affect hunger relief and urging community members to take action.

What can I do to help families affected by rising food prices?

You can make an immediate difference by donating food, funds, or time to Long Island Cares. Advocacy is also crucial—contact your representatives to express concerns about tariffs and their impact on food insecurity.