More Oregonians are having a hard time putting food on the table. Among all states, Oregon recorded the second biggest jump in food insecurity, even as food insecurity declined at the national level. Hunger, a more severe form of food insecurity, also rose in Oregon, while remaining flat nationally. This analysis compares two time periods: 2012-14 with 2009-11.[1]

These findings are yet another reminder that despite Oregon’s economic upswing, low- and moderate-income Oregonians are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. Lawmakers must enact economic policies that will turn the tide on food insecurity and hunger, such as significantly increasing the state’s minimum wage, cracking down on wage theft and making stronger investments in services that help working families make ends meet.

Full report available as a PDF: Hunger and Food Insecurity Rise in Oregon, Despite Economic Recovery