Money woes tested as food prices climb

 These first few chilly nights are only the start. As families face the “heat or eat” dilemma amid a crumbling economy and rising food and fuel prices, some will feel their pain, if only for a week.

Nearly two dozen United Way staffers in South Boston are in a food stamp challenge, limiting themselves to $21 for a week of groceries to simulate the chore more families are facing.

“What is happening here is a perfect storm that is causing people to make some really tough decisions,” said Director of Communications Meghan Keaney, 28, whose $20.24 purchase included pastas, breads, and eggs.
While Keaney rations, others face bigger obstacles.

Director of Community Impact, Paola Ferrer, has celiac disease and must find gluten-free foods that can run twice the price.

“This is difficult for me having a decent salary," said Ferrer, 35. “What would this be like for a family that has to cope with not having enough resources to meet these particular dietary needs?”

An option in the struggle this winter will be food pantries. Victor Acosta, United Way community ambassador, visited one this weekend. His family used food stamps when he was a kid, and the emotional impact is not easily overcome.

“You look down on the ground [at the food pantry] and realize where you are in society,” he said. “It’s an assault on dignity.”

According to the group, food costs have seen their highest increase in 17 years and state residents who heat with natural gas or oil could pay 30 percent more this year than 2007.