Trump Economy & Food Costs: How US Dining Is Changing

A recent report from The Guardian examined how people in Atlanta, Georgia, are coping with food insecurity and rising costs, nearly a year into the second administration of Donald Trump. The findings reveal a wide range of experiences, from individuals relying on food pantries to those maintaining a luxury lifestyle despite economic pressures.

Facing Food Insecurity in Atlanta

Sabrina Carter, a resident of Atlanta, receives only $24 a month in food stamps, which she says quickly runs out. She has not visited a “real” restaurant in at least a year and often splurges on cereal or a granola bar. Carter recently visited Area in Need Missionary House in Riverdale, Georgia, to collect a food basket from its pantry.

Erica Barker, who lost her job with a contractor to DeKalb county’s watershed department a year ago, also visited the pantry for the first time. She is trying to support her daughter and grandson without benefits, and the family spends between $200 and $300 a week on food, primarily noodles. Barker expressed frustration with the judgement she faces when seeking assistance.

Stephanie Jordan, the executive director of Area in Need, noted a significant increase in demand for the pantry’s services. Last year, they served roughly 280 people a month; now, they serve over 500. This surge began when food benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (Snap) were temporarily halted during the federal government shutdown, and demand has not decreased.

“You never know what a person is going through when they walk through these doors,” Jordan said. “That’s why it’s so important to treat people with respect.” The food pantry’s costs are climbing, and Jordan has begun borrowing from its housing support budget to meet the increased need.

Varied Experiences Across Atlanta

Yolanda Thomas, recently arrived in Atlanta after losing her home in New York, is spending between $400 and $500 a month on food for herself and her husband. She is seeking employment and insurance in her new location.

Carl Hilton, a local entrepreneur, described tightening his belt but continuing to explore Atlanta’s food scene. He spends “well over” $500 a month on food, despite a recent increase in grocery costs.

Refugee Entrepreneurs and Luxury Dining

Nizakat Noori, a chef and mother of four, is working to open a restaurant in Atlanta while navigating uncertainty surrounding her immigration status. She currently caters meals through the Chef’s Club, a program of the Refugee Women’s Network, and sends money back to her family in Afghanistan.

Marmar Stewart, entrepreneurship development coordinator for the Refugee Women’s Network, noted the program’s success and growing demand, now serving chefs from Afghanistan, Syria, Somalia, Ethiopia, Congo, Ukraine, and other countries.

At the higher end of the market, Sara Soendergaard, an assistant general manager at The Capital Grille in Atlanta, reported a slight decrease in dining frequency among the middle-upper class, but continued strong business from corporate accounts and high-income individuals. The restaurant has implemented three price increases this year due to rising costs.

Andre Melchionda, founder of Arrivato Imports, noted a growing demand for luxury items like caviar, with a recent trend of “caviar bumps.” While tariffs have increased costs, his business continues to grow, particularly among high-end restaurants and affluent clients.

Rosby Cobb, a drone pilot and entertainment professional, spends approximately $600 a week on food, primarily ordering out due to a busy lifestyle.