MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Expenses are piling up for Americans ahead of Christmas. Inflation and supply chain issues are driving an increase in prices for just about everything.
FOX13 spoke with shoppers who said their dollars are getting stretched thin.
“Things are really kind of hard trying to make ends meet,” said shopper Brenda Nesby.
Gas, groceries, gifts. Americans’ wallets have been hit hard as prices for items soared this year.
“The cost of living is up, and everything is up, so we have to come together,” said shopper Juanita Webb.
This Christmas, best friends Brenda Nesby and Juanita Webb are celebrating together.
“We have to combine together to make it work to make ends meet. We have to make our family come together,” said Nesby.
Economists said many Americans could relate. The price hike is a result of stores sharply increasing their cost of doing business to get workers. They’re also scrambling to fill shelves with major U.S. ports still backed up.
“When you have a little stretch of money, you just have to get what you can,” said Webb.
But after experiencing lockdowns, loss of loved ones, and skipping holiday gatherings, Webb and Nesby said being together this Christmas is what matters most.
“We’re praying 2022 is a better year, and we can get past this. We’re grateful we‘re still here, doing the best we can,” said Nesby.
Economists said inflation prices might remain high through April, then taper off.
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