Feeding the Gulf Coast’s Post

I’ve witnessed hunger. I’ve helped children sneak bags of food home in their backpacks for the weekend because it was a possibility they would go days without being fed. I’ve worried with other teachers about children going hungry during the weekends and on school breaks. I’ve watched children cry because they didn’t want to go home knowing they didn’t know when they would eat next. Children should never have to worry about food shortage and I believe it is our responsibility to do everything in our power to help. Though many of us may not realize the grave disparities that exist in our own communities, people face hunger in every county and congressional district in Indiana and beyond. They could be our neighbors, kids in our children's classes – the possibilities go on. In Indiana, 950,220 people are facing hunger - and of them 285,070 are children. 1 in 7 people in Indiana faces hunger 1 in 5 children in Bartholomew County faces hunger 42% of children in Bartholomew County qualify for free or reduced lunch… 50% of Flat-Rock Hawcreek quality 52% of Jackson County qualify 66% of Jennings County qualify “As pandemic programs ended and prices for household expenses (including food) rose, food insecurity levels have also risen,” according to Feeding America’s Map the Meal Gap 2024 report. “…Food insecurity is a symptom of historical and structural oppression, not individual weakness. It does not exist in a vacuum: people who face challenges accessing enough food also face challenges affording adequate housing, healthcare, transportation and other basic needs.” #hungeractionmonth

🧡 September is #HungerActionMonth, and the Feeding America network is calling on everyone to take one million actions against hunger! 🧡 Throughout the month, we'll share stories, newly available data, and ways to get involved in the movement to end hunger. Every action counts–whether you donate, advocate, volunteer, or spread the word online. Let's end hunger together: https://lnkd.in/eGGid-4k

As late as 2022, more than 44 million people in the US faced hunger, including one in five children. Five million more—when added to those 44 million and who collectively constitute one in six people in the US—continue to rely on food assistance from charities like Feeding America. This situation affects adults and children alike. A stunning 100% of counties are affected. Residents of urban food deserts, those who live in rural areas across the nation and particularly in the South, are often even more likely to lack access to sufficient food to thrive. Many factors—including poverty, unemployment and the cost of living—have brought us to this point. I encourage you to follow Feeding America on LinkedIn at https://lnkd.in/g9Tgybpa to see how you too can support their work.

Today, on #HungerActionDay, our CEO, Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, appeared on Good Morning America and shared how YOU can take action to help reduce food insecurity in America. Every action counts—whether you donate, volunteer, advocate or spread the word. In the United States, 1 in 7 people and 1 in 5 children experience food insecurity. Let’s end hunger together. 🎥 Watch the full segment now: bit.ly/4gjfCtI #HungerActionMonth

Help Fight Summer Hunger! As summer approaches, many families struggle to find nutritious food when school meal programs are unavailable. 🔴 Why This Matters: Over 1 billion meals are thrown away each year due to confusing date labels. By supporting clearer food date labeling, we can reduce waste and provide meals during critical moments. Our Commitment: Move For Hunger has delivered over 39 million meals by rescuing surplus food and partnering with moving companies, real estate professionals, and supporters like you. Get Involved: 1️⃣ Sign the Petition ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gdv8UfzW 2️⃣ Spread the Word: Share this message with your network. 3️⃣ Donate: Just $1 provides 3 meals ➡️ https://vist.ly/3a26c

This project was both fun and saddening. Over 1000 children told us why food is important to them. Many showed us that systemic #hunger issues are recognized even at such a young age. Some notable quotes: "If we can conquer space, we can conquer childhood hunger." "Hunger is something no one should struggle with or be judged for." "They got money for wars but can't feed the poor." "If you can't feed 100 people, then just feed one. One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well." "Food is important to me because I have food but not everyone has food." "Food is important to me because it helps you physically and mentally. Don't stop eating because you're unhappy with your body." "A pointed commentary on the class divide, how food is sustenance for some and decadence for others." #HungerActionDay #HungerActionMonth

🌟 Hunger Action Month: Take a Stand with Rachel's Table! 🌟 This September, Rachel's Table is proud to participate in Hunger Action Month—a time to raise awareness and, most importantly, take action against hunger in our community. Every day, countless families face food insecurity, and we believe no one should go hungry. This Hunger Action Month, let's take action to end hunger! Donate to us, glean with us, participate in food drives with us, or drive food for us- there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. Together, we can make hunger history! Join us in our mission. Every action counts, whether it's donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Let's work together to ensure everyone has access to nutritious meals. This Hunger Action Month, let's take action to end hunger! Let's unite for a hunger-free community. 💚 #HungerActionMonth #EndHunger #RachelsTable #CommunitySupport #TakeAction #MakeHungerHistory

🌟 Hunger Action Month: Take a Stand with Rachel's Table! 🌟 This September, Rachel's Table is proud to participate in Hunger Action Month—a time to raise awareness and, most importantly, take action against hunger in our community. Every day, countless families face food insecurity, and we believe no one should go hungry. This Hunger Action Month, let's take action to end hunger! Donate to us, glean with us, participate in food drives with us, or drive food for us- there are many ways to get involved and make a difference. Together, we can make hunger history! Join us in our mission. Every action counts, whether it's donating, volunteering, or spreading the word. Let's work together to ensure everyone has access to nutritious meals. This Hunger Action Month, let's take action to end hunger! Let's unite for a hunger-free community. 💚 #HungerActionMonth #EndHunger #RachelsTable #CommunitySupport #TakeAction #MakeHungerHistory

Hunger is just the tip of the iceberg. On this #HungerActionDay, we want to highlight the incredible work of organizations across New Jersey that are tirelessly fighting food insecurity. However, hunger is often a symptom of deeper, interconnected factors—what the health sector refers to as social determinants of health. From income inequality and unemployment to housing conditions, education, and access to healthcare, these are all factors that play a crucial role in exacerbating food insecurity. At the Franklin Food Bank, we recognize that addressing hunger alone isn’t enough. That's why we’ve expanded our services beyond food distribution with programs that offer health screenings, SNAP navigation, a client choice market, nutrition workshops, financial literacy, and even school distribution programs—ensuring a holistic approach to community care. To our volunteers, donors, and sponsors—thank you for making it possible to tackle hunger from all angles. Together, we go beyond food security and strive to improve the overall well-being of those we serve, offering support in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. Want to learn more about our services? Visit our website to discover how we’re working towards a healthier, more secure future for all, www.franklinfoodbank.org #HungerActionDay #EndHunger #FoodInsecurity #CommunitySupport #Nonprofit #SocialGood #DignityAndRespect