September 2024 – As Hunger Action Month kicks off, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness and inspiring action to combat hunger in America, new data reveals a troubling rise in food insecurity.
According to Feeding America’s latest “Map the Meal Gap” report, 12.8% of residents in northern Indiana, including 18.3% of children, are experiencing food insecurity. This issue affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds.
A report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture released on September 4th highlights a worrying trend: 47 million Americans, including 14 million children, now live in food-insecure households. This marks an increase from 44 million the previous year and represents the highest numbers since 2014.
Hunger Action Day, observed on Tuesday, September 10, encourages supporters to wear orange, the color symbolizing hunger relief, to show solidarity with those struggling with hunger in northern Indiana.
Community members are encouraged to organize food drives at workplaces, clubs, or places of worship to help restock the Food Bank of Northern Indiana’s shelves. Key items needed include peanut butter, canned soup, boxed dinner meals, canned fruits and vegetables, and spaghetti products, with an emphasis on low-sugar, low-sodium, and pop-top options.
Monetary donations are also impactful, with every dollar donated providing up to five meals or eight pounds of food through the Food Bank.
Volunteers are invited to tour the Food Bank’s facility and learn about its various programs, including the Food 4 Kids Backpack Program, Mobile Food Pantry Program, and Senior Nutrition Program.
Advocacy efforts are also vital this month. Community members are encouraged to contact legislators to support stronger nutrition programs in the Farm Bill, which plays a critical role in ensuring access to nutritious food for vulnerable populations, including children, seniors, and active military members.
The Food Bank of Northern Indiana, which has participated in Hunger Action Month since 2009, urges the public to share their support on social media by tagging the Food Bank and using hashtags like #HungerActionMonth, #EndHunger, and @FeedingAmerica.
Hunger Action Month began in 2008, evolving from the original Hunger Action Day established in 2002, as part of Feeding America’s efforts to mobilize communities nationwide in the fight against hunger.
