Indiana’s largest hunger relief organization reports end-of-year donations are down. Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana says the new tax law has impacted giving by raising itemization limits.
Communications director Sarah Estell says this results in less motivation to donate based on deductions.
"And without that additional incentive we’re seeing reduced amount of donations from people who are still giving and from people who have decided not to give at all," says Estell.
Gleaners says donations are down more than $500,000 compared to last year. The organization says end-of-year giving makes up about 30 percent of its fundraising.
Estell says the loss could impact programs that include fresh produce purchases. That could directly impact the health of more than 300,000 Hoosiers they serve.
"Particularly for the young children who are served through our school based pantries, through our mobile pantries, though our weekend back sack program. It’s very concerning," says Estell.
Gleaners says one in six people in its 21-county service area are food insecure.