KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The U.S. Department of Labor said the price of everyday purchases such as food, shelter, transportation and electricity continued rising into September. They released a new report of the Consumer Price Index on Thursday, showing that inflation levels were still hovering around the highest they've been since the early 1980s.
Over the last 12 months, the inflation rate is at 8.2%. While that's down from the previous peak in June, it still means the price of food and shelter is rising for many people. They said the price of food went up 0.8% in September when seasonally adjusted, and the price of utility gas went up 2.9%.
The average price of all items covered by the Consumer Price Index rose by 0.4% compared to last month. The index is meant to show how much money the average American spends on essential items.
While many prices went up, some also went down. The price of gas fell by 4.9% compared to last month.
However, in every category, the price had gone up by between 3% and 58% compared to last year.
"211 is the social services hotline and you can get connected to trained professionals that can get you connected to the services you might be looking for," said Brewton Couch with the United Way of Greater Knoxville.
Some community efforts are also trying to help people pay their bills. The Knox County Red Book of Resources is run by a Corryton woman and helps people find services they may need online.
Services offered by calling 211 include help with housing, food, substance abuse, health facilities, mental health services, financial assistance and senior issues.