Understanding the Hunger Crisis
Hunger is more than just an empty stomach; it’s a barrier to health, education, and opportunity. According to Feeding America, over 44 million people in the United States, including more than 9 million children, face food insecurity. The effects are far-reaching, leading to chronic health conditions, developmental issues in children, and increased stress and anxiety among families.
Why Hunger Action Month Matters
Hunger Action Month is an annual campaign organized by Feeding America to raise awareness and inspire action to end hunger. Throughout September, communities, organizations, and individuals come together to advocate for the food-insecure and encourage meaningful steps to alleviate hunger. This month-long initiative provides a platform to educate others about the realities of hunger and to promote ways to help, ensuring that everyone has access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.
How You Can Make a Difference
1. Donate to Local Food Banks: Food banks are on the front lines, providing essential support to those in need. Donations of non-perishable food items or financial contributions can make a significant impact. Many food banks can turn a small donation into several meals, stretching resources to reach more families. (You can find your local foodbank here)
2. Volunteer Your Time: Consider volunteering at a local food bank, pantry, or soup kitchen. Volunteers are vital in sorting donations, preparing meals, and distributing food to those in need. Even a few hours of your time can make a substantial difference in your community.
3. Raise Awareness: Use your voice to spread the word about Hunger Action Month. Share information on social media, talk to your friends and family, or organize a food drive at your workplace or neighborhood. The more people who understand the issue, the stronger our collective impact can be.
4. Advocate for Policy Change: Hunger is a systemic issue that requires systemic solutions. Get involved by advocating for policies that support food security, such as increased funding for food assistance programs, support for local agriculture, and measures that address poverty and inequality.
5. Support Sustainable Solutions: Long-term food security depends on sustainable practices. Support local farmers’ markets, encourage farm-to-table initiatives, and back organizations working to build sustainable food systems. These efforts help ensure that healthy, nutritious food is available to all.
Join Us in the Fight Against Hunger
At Ridiculous Engineering, we are committed to supporting initiatives that make a positive impact. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against hunger.
Here is a list of daily action items you can take part in.
Hunger Action Month is a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in ending hunger. By taking action—whether through donations, volunteering, raising awareness, or advocating for change—we can help ensure that everyone has access to the food they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Let’s make September a month of compassion, action, and hope. Join us in taking steps to fight hunger and support our community.
References to organizations you can partner with to help:
National Resources and Actions
- Feeding America:
- The largest hunger-relief organization in the U.S., Feeding America leads Hunger Action Month with a variety of ways to get involved, including donating, advocating for policy changes, and volunteering at local food banks.
- Hunger Action Month Campaign:
- Throughout September, you can participate in the nationwide campaign by signing petitions, making donations, and sharing your support on social media using #HungerActionMonth. They also focus on advocating for legislation such as the Farm Bill, which supports nutrition programs.
- United Food Bank:
- This organization encourages families to engage in education, advocacy, and volunteering during Hunger Action Month.
Colorado-Specific Resources and Actions
- Feeding Colorado:
- A collaboration of five food banks serving Colorado, including the Food Bank of the Rockies and Community Food Share.
- Hunger Free Colorado:
- This organization provides a comprehensive set of resources, including SNAP benefits information, school meal programs, and the Food Resource Hotline, which connects people to food assistance across the state.
Local Food Banks in Colorado:
- Food Bank of the Rockies
- Care and Share Food Bank for Southern Colorado
- Community Food Share (Boulder and Broomfield Counties)
- Weld Food Bank
Ways to Get Involved
- Volunteering: Volunteer with Feeding Colorado
- Donating: Donate to Feeding America
- Advocating: Advocacy Resources at United Food Bank
- Supporting organization: National day of service and remembrance