As Costs for Everyday Essentials Skyrocket Under Trump, Duckworth Highlights Importance of Community Resource Providers as a Lifeline for Struggling Families

[ROCKFORD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today brought together Winnebago County community resource providers to highlight the need to better support children and families as costs for everyday essentials continue to skyrocket under the Trump Administration. In a conversation with Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara and leaders from including Brooke Road Community Center, The Baby Bank and Rock River Valley Pantry, Duckworth discussed the support needed for families and how organizations like these are filling in the necessary gaps. Duckworth also toured the Brooke Road Community Center to learn more about their operations and meet with volunteers and staff. Photos of today’s meeting are available on theSenator’s website.
“The Trump Administration has left our families and communities behind—ripping away SNAP benefits, healthcare and starting an unnecessary and unjust war that’s driving up prices back home,”Duckworth said.“Food pantries, diaper banks and other community resource organizations play a critical role for families across our state, offering support during the sometimes scary, often overwhelming moments of parenthood. I was glad to meet with leaders today who are delivering that support to families across the Rockford community.”
Duckworth has been an outspoken voice working to support food and diaper banks by protecting key federal programs, advocating against federal funding cuts and elevating the needs of local providers. Last year, she introduced theHonor Farmers Contract Act of 2025to hold the Trump Administration accountable for the illegal withholding of USDA contract funding that helpsensurefood banks continue receiving fresh, locally sourced food while alsospeakingout against threats to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Additionally, Duckworth re-introduced her bipartisanEnd Diaper Need Act of 2025to make it easier for low-income families to afford the diapers they need. Since FY 2023, she has secured a total of $70 million for the Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot (DDDRP), including $20 million for FY 2026. Duckworth has also met withfood pantries,diaper banksand community organizations to highlight the growing challenges they face under the Trump Administration.
-30-