Rising Demand Forces Food Banks to Ration Supplies

Food banks in Germany are facing unprecedented challenges, as 60% are forced to ration food due to soaring demand. The number of individuals relying on these services has surged by 50%, reaching approximately 1.6 million people since the onset of the Ukraine conflict.

This increase highlights a growing crisis exacerbated by stagnant wages and pensions that have not kept pace with rising living costs. The umbrella organization representing food banks is urgently calling for governmental action to combat poverty.

Chairman Andreas Steppuhn has suggested measures like lowering VAT on food to alleviate some pressure. Moreover, one-third of food banks have implemented temporary admission freezes and waiting lists to manage the overwhelming influx of clients.

This situation underscores the critical need for immediate support and policy reform to address the escalating issue of food insecurity in the country.