Hunger is a problem that exists throughout the world from third world countries to the shining pinnacle of modernity in places like Poland, Germany, and the United States, and this year, with Covid-19, the epidemic of food insecurity both in America and around the world has only gotten worse. No one should have to go hungry, and Hunger Action Month reminds us that there are those out there who need the help of a kind soul with an open hand, and that there are more than enough resources in the world for us all to eat well. Isn’t it time we all stood up and did something for the hungry in our community and our world?
History of Hunger Action Month
Hunger Action Month was established by Feeding America back in 2008, when it decided it was time for a nationwide push to get involved with the hunger crisis across the country. During the month of September people everywhere help to feed the needy in their neighborhood and country, working to ensure that the 48 million people who live with hunger every day can get some relief. Food depravation is a problem for more than just adults as well, children all over the country go to school without a proper breakfast, leading to difficulty focusing on their education, alertness, and generally performing well.
How to Join Hunger Action Month
Joining Hunger Action Month starts by taking action against hunger – seems obvious, right? All you need to do is to help raise awareness of hunger as a problem, and there are a lot of ways of doing that even if you’re short on time and money.
One popular way of raising awareness is to take a plate and writing “On an empty stomach, I can’t:” and then filling in the blank to help people learn what effect suffering from a shortage of food can have. Examples are “Study” and “Sleep properly”, even “Be active.” You then take this photo of yourself holding the plate and post it on social media and get others to do the same with themselves. Tell your friends and family what you’re doing to help end hunger. Post by post, the world will become a little more aware. Use the #HungerActionMonth and share!
If you’re feeling a bit more ambitious and want to be directly involved, you can find people in your community who are working with Feed America or any other food based organization to help bring food to the needy in your area. Volunteering at your local food bank or food drive, and donations are always welcome and help to battle this epidemic in our country and around the world.
And finally, you can vote! Feeding America has a place on their site where you can vote to protect hunger relief programs for millions of Americans.
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