SNAP • Hunger Awareness and Advocacy • Press Releases • 3 min read • Jun 6, 2025 11:25:41 PM • Written by: Rachael Miller
Food Bank of Alaska is sounding the alarm on increased hunger rates across the state, as detailed in Feeding America's latest Map the Meal Gap report.
The update reveals that 1 in 7 Alaskans and 1 in 5 Alaskan children experience hunger. This marks a significant increase from previous years, underscoring the need in Alaska.
As the hunger relief network adapts to the risen need, the House of Representatives recently passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which includes an estimated $300 billion in cuts to SNAP that would include an annual multi-million-dollar cost shift to the state and create additional barriers to access. Feeding America, the largest anti-hunger organization in the country, estimates the SNAP cuts in the bill could take an average of 9.5 billion meals off the table every year.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) serves as a critical lifeline for many Alaskans facing food insecurity. Nearly 70,000 Alaskans receive SNAP with over 64% of recipients are part of families with children.
"Protecting SNAP is not just about preserving a program; it's about safeguarding the health and well-being of Alaskans," said Cara Durr, Food Bank of Alaska CEO. "We urge our fellow Alaskans to meet this moment and take action in this critical fight against hunger."
In response, the Alaska Food Coalition is mobilizing to protect SNAP and calling upon both organizations and individuals to act.
How to Contact Congress About SNAP and Medicaid
Use your voice. It’s time to speak up and defend food assistance in Alaska.
- Call toll-free (800) 708-8229
Leave a message for your Congressmen and urge them to protect SNAP and Medicaid. If you get disconnected or hear dead air, try again. Phone lines are busy. - Email Senator Dan Sullivan
- Email Senator Lisa Murkowski
- Email Representative Nick Begich
For more information or to support hunger relief statewide, visit foodbankofalaska.org.
For media interviews or additional information, contact:
Rachael Miller, Chief Advocacy Officer
Food Bank of Alaska
907-222-3111
rmiller@foodbankofalaska.org
