This editorial is the third in a series by the Akron Beacon Journal Editorial Board exploring the impact federal budget cuts and policies are having on this region and its residents.

Food is a basic human need, not a political pawn.

Unfortunately, safety net programs here and nationwide that combat hunger are taking a hit at a time when demand is on the rise.

And our region is literally losing tons of food.

This year, the Trump administration has made cuts to United States Department of Agriculture programs that provide food to food banks throughout the country. One of those programs provided funds to allow food banks to purchase items directly from our nation's farmers.

Katie Carver Reed, vice president and chief operating officer for the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank , estimate

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