New data from Bermuda’s food aid providers reveals a complex situation. Despite one of the lowest unemployment rates in the island’s history, demand for food assistance has continued to rise since the pandemic. However, finalised figures for 2025 show fewer meals and grocery bags distributed compared with 2023, not due to reduced need but because of rising costs and limited capacity.
Analysis from the Non-Profit Alliance of Bermuda’s Association of Food Aid Providers (AFAP), which includes nine churches and non-profit organisations, shows that between 2023 and 2025, grocery bags, food vouchers, and meals provided all decreased, while total spending on food aid remained nearly the same. The cost per client increased, reflecting higher food prices, rising operating costs, and more complex service delivery.
Food aid providers face pressures similar to households, including fluctuating food prices, higher operational costs, and challenges in fundraising. Many organisations are spending more per person to maintain service levels, often adjusting menus, sourcing strategies, or limiting intake. For example, Eliza DoLittle has maintained a wait-list for new clients due to these constraints.
Some organisations have responded with innovation and coordination. The St Vincent de Paul Society expanded services by stretching resources, while AFAP has improved collaboration, ensuring access to food aid seven days a week and publishing weekly food aid schedules. These efforts demonstrate effective coordination within the third sector despite public perceptions of disjointedness.
Need for food assistance remains high, with many families accessing support despite being employed. Rising living costs and wages that lag behind inflation mean that low unemployment does not eliminate food insecurity. Structural affordability, rather than joblessness, drives much of the ongoing demand.
AFAP works to coordinate services, reduce gaps, and strengthen the network, but community support remains essential. Volunteers, donations, and governance involvement are critical to sustaining programmes. Food aid organisations continue to adapt, innovate, and collaborate, yet they cannot absorb rising costs indefinitely without broader support from the community.
