'Food costs have quadrupled': Chicago shelters say inflation driving more people to use their services
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Inflation is impacting everyday Americans, but for those living paycheck to paycheck, the effects hit harder.
The latest city data shows more than 4,400 Chicagoans are already experiencing homelessness. CBS 2's Sabrina Franza reports from a shelter in Old Town where the need for community services has increased greatly.
In the Chicago area, food prices have gone up 11.2%, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For those experiencing homelessness, paying for that next meal is harder than ever.
For centers like these offering food and shelter, demand is through the roof.
"We're just going to announce our presence when were near the tent."
CBS 2 went along with Lincoln Park Community Services as they delivered meals, every Monday and Thursday.
Brian said he's doing "better" these days. He said he served in the Navy and overcame an addiction to pain killers.
A simple peanut butter sandwich -- means even more now -- with the rising cost of food.
"I consume two-thirds of my check," Brian said.
Lincoln Park Community Services has two shelters - one in Old Town and the other in Lincoln Park. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
"Everything that's going on with the economy not only impacts you and I, but individuals that don't have resources. Whatever small amount they have now doesn't go nearly as far," said Cheryl Hamilton-Hill, CEO of Lincoln Park Community Services.
They've seen their demand multiply in the past few months.
"Our food costs have quadrupled in the past 12 months because were seeing more people. That means everything that we do has gone up significantly," she said. "You know, the number of people that are coming in to take a shower, water costs go up. The number of people taking transportation to seek employment, those are numbers go up."
With inflation weighing heavily on everyone's bottom line, they say they've seen five times the number of people seeking help, coming to the organization for basic human necessitates. This year so far, the centers have served 2,163 guests.
Last year in total, the number was 422.
That's about five times the amount. And it's only August. The center houses guests for extended periods of time but also offers drop in services for clean showers, laundry, internet, and a hot meal.
Franklin Russ arrived 15 days ago.
"I have hope now."
The services don't just fill his stomach.
"Getting an ID, birth certificate, Social Security card, things I need to obtain to a job its about employment here. It's about being a productive member of society," Russ said. "And the social workers here are doing their very best to make that happen. And I see it working in every single individual in this place."
When asked what Lincoln Park Community Services what they need to meet their bottom line, they said they'll always accept donations, including food, toiletries or just volunteer time.
Click here for more information on Lincoln Park Community Services and how you can help.