September is Hunger Action Month. Feeding America’s annual Hunger Action Month initiative encourages our community to take action and become part of the solution to end hunger.
Often, hunger and food insecurity go unnoticed. People are struggling to provide healthy, nutritious food for their families right here in our own backyard. Many of our clients work multiple jobs, but struggle to make ends meet. Some households that experience food insecurity do not qualify for federal nutrition programs. Living above the poverty line, they have to turn to food pantries for extra support.
It can be easy to assume that hunger only affects those visibly living in poverty, but the reality is far more complex. Many individuals and families who experience hunger may not fit into conventional stereotypes of poverty. Circumstances like job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected life events can push anyone into the grips of food insecurity. No one is immune to food insecurity. Hunger can wear many faces: a single parent working multiple jobs to feed their children, a college student skipping meals to afford textbooks, or an elderly person unable to afford proper nutrition. It affects people of all ages and all walks of life.
Without awareness of a problem, people cannot take action to remedy it, so here’s how you can help! Donate your time/volunteer: Your time is very valuable to helping fight hunger. Sorting food, filling boxes, or distributing food to those in need can be very beneficial and rewarding. Donate food: Healthy, non-expired food is always appreciated. You can also make a food donation through our Virtual Food Drive. Donate funds: Every donation of any size is deeply appreciated. Your funds provide vital support in the efforts to help struggling families.
Join us on September 15th for “Go Orange Day”! Wear orange on this day to raise awareness for hunger in our community. Your actions make you part of the solution! For more information on how to get involved, visit loaves-fishes.org.
