Want to ensure every person in Central Alabama has enough food to lead an active, healthy life? Check out these truths about hunger in our community and find out ways you can help.
We often think that families facing hunger live overseas in war-torn, drought-stricken or economically distressed nations. In fact, many of our own neighbors are at risk of hunger. Did you know that the parents or guardians of nearly 73,000 children in Central Alabama say their children sometimes skip meals, do not eat for a whole day or go hungry because there is not enough money to buy food for the household?
So who is hungry in Central Alabama? Our neighbors.
The fact that even one child or adult in Central Alabama is at risk of hunger means we have gaps in our food system. Federal nutrition programs like free school meals or SNAP (food stamps) do much to address hunger but the assistance does not fully meet the need.
These parents are forced to make stark choices: Should I buy groceries or pay the utility bill? Will our food last until my next paycheck? Even though I skipped dinner, will the kids have enough to eat tonight?
Due to economic distress, people seeking charitable food assistance in Central Alabama report making choices between paying for food and other basic needs.
Residents at risk of hunger employ multiple strategies to avoid hunger.
These stressors compound health problems.
It may surprise you to learn that you can help! You can give food, funds or time to help solve hunger in Central Alabama. Hosting a food drive, volunteering, giving voice to evidence-based food policies and donating funds are just a few of the ways you can make a difference.
The Food Bank of Central Alabama helps supply food to approximately 230 food pantries, shelters and children’s programs in Central Alabama. All would welcome your support. Together we can solve hunger!