MFB leads celebration for Hunger Action Month
September is Hunger Action Month and Feeding America is encouraging one million actions across the country to end hunger. During the month-long campaign, Mountaineer Food Bank and feeding programs across West Virginia will be raising awareness and inspiring action. Every action counts, whether it’s donating, advocating, volunteering or spreading the word online.
“West Virginia faces an unprecedented level of need, with countless families across our state struggling to put food on the table,” says Chad Morrison, CEO of Mountaineer Food Bank from their headquarters between Gassaway and Sutton. “This Hunger Action Month, we’re coming together with our network of feeding programs to elevate the voices of those who experience food insecurity daily. We invite every West Virginian to join us in taking action, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply raising awareness. Together, we can inspire change and move closer to a future where no one goes hungry. Follow and participate in our daily Hunger Action Month activities on Facebook and Twitter, and let your actions be part of the movement to end hunger.”
“We can end hunger in the U.S. when we decide to work together with coordinated action and a shared belief that everyone deserves fresh, nutritious food,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America. “This year during Hunger Action Month, we are encouraging everyone to take action. Raise your voice. Volunteer. Donate. Our individual actions may seem small, but together they become a powerful movement that can change history.”
The USDA estimates 1 in 7 people and 1 in 5 children experienced food insecurity in 2022. In West Virginia, food insecurity ranges from a low of 9.1% in Jefferson County to 23.5% in Calhoun County.
Activities are happening throughout West Virginia. People can get involved locally through the actions below:
• Volunteer Your Time: Help sort, pack, or distribute food at your local food bank or pantry. Your hands-on support makes a direct impact. For more information on volunteering visit: www.mountaineer foodbank.org/volunteer
• Host a Food Drive: Organize a community food drive to collect non-perishable items for those in need.
• Donate Funds: Financial contributions allow us to purchase fresh produce and other essential items to distribute to families in need. Donate Here: mountaineerfood bank. harnessgiving.org/donate/?selected-method=monthly& amount=50&campaign_id=0
• Share Your Story: If you or someone you know has been impacted by food insecurity, share your story to help raise awareness and inspire others to take action.
• Advocate for Change: Contact local representatives to support policies that address hunger and food insecurity in our community.
• Spread the Word: Use social media to share our Hunger Action Month calendar and encourage your friends and family to get involved.
• Support Local Farmers: Buy from local farmers or markets that donate surplus produce to food banks.
• Wear Orange: Show your support by wearing orange—the color of hunger awareness—on Hunger Action Day, Tuesday, September 10, 2024 and encourage others to do the same. Learn more about how you can take action by visiting https://www.facebook.com/MountaineerFood
