You know the numbers, 1 in 8 Americans struggle with access to consistent and adequate amounts of food. Hunger affects seniors, kids and families across all communities in America, in your town or city. We all know it’s a serious problem in our communities. The Feeding America network is an organization that is helping.
photo credit – feedingamerica.org
The Feeding America network is businesses, donors and farmers providing food and support to 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries across the nation. They work at finding surplus healthy food and getting it to those who need it.
“We feed 46 million people at risk of hunger, including 12 million children and 7 million seniors.” FeedingAmerica.org
Jon Van Hengel created the first food bank in Phoenix, Arizona, which has grown into the Feeding America network. A veteran volunteer at his church, Jon began volunteering at a busy St. Vincent de Paul soup kitchen. Motivated by the hunger he saw, he created the first location where grocery stores could take their products that couldn’t be sold, and could be dispensed to those in need. This first, the St. Mary’s Food Bank grew into Second Harvest in 1976, know today as Feeding America.
photo credit – www.feedingamerica.org
There are many ways in which you can support this non-profit. They can put you in touch with your local food bank, fund raise for the organization at large, will take donations and planned giving.
photo credit – 123rf
Feeding America is a non-profit organization, rated 4 out of 4 stars by Charity Navigator, the non-profit, online service which offers you information on charities.
We are strong believers in and supporters of philanthropy. There are so many good causes and organizations that depend on generous donations to continue their important work. We recommend vetting the charities you are interested in supporting. Where Does All the Money Go and Be a Savvy Donor? are two ASE articles that can help you make informed decisions.
Share this article with your friends and loved ones so that we can make progress towards reducing hunger in the United States.
Does your community have a food bank or Coordinator that we should celebrate? Please let us know in the comments below.