<– Photo credit to Bob Henderson

As a child, I remember naively donating to food drives, expecting to have fed a homeless man.  I felt both satisfied and enthusiastic to help.  Many years later, while wearing a Hunger Action button, a professor of mine started a seemingly simple conversation that ended with his gut wrenching personal hunger story as a child.  I then realized that my own classmates were once the beneficiaries of my efforts, that hunger is much closer to home than I wanted to admit and that I had to become a larger part in ending hunger.  I’ve learned from Feeding America how important it is to teach others how to make a difference for the 1 in 8 Americans, who currently need the help of Feeding America and its local food banks to feed themselves and their families.

Hunger is sickeningly prevalent in our own backyards.  Over 49 million Americans aren’t sure when their next meal will be.  Of 37 million served by Feeding America, only 12% are homeless, while many are part of the working poor.  Although these numbers might be intimidating, it is equally as shocking to learn how easy it is to make a difference.  For example, skipping one latte every other week, and donating those funds to Feeding America will provide a healthy breakfast for a hungry child for every day of a school year.  Imagine how much better that child will be able to learn, when he isn’t thinking about the rumbling in his tummy!  Although all of America is experiencing a tough economic time, we can all give a little.  My message is quick, and might move you emotionally but I hope that it moves you to join this cause!  Check back soon for both an updated list of ideas on how you can help, and how I can help you in this journey.  And don’t forget to drop me a line to let me know the progress you’ve made, I love to hear from you!

Video Credit to Feeding America