Every September, communities across the country come together for Hunger Action Month, a national campaign launched by Feeding America in 2008 to raise awareness and inspire action against hunger. This annual observance sheds light on the fact that over 44 million Americans, including 13 million children, face food insecurity every day.
Here in Southwest Florida, food insecurity is a growing concern. According to Feeding America, more than 177,000 individuals—41,000 of them children—across Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades, and Hendry counties struggle with consistent access to nutritious food. As we approach Hunger Action Month 2024, Harry Chapin Food Bank is calling on everyone in the community to help combat this pressing issue.
“For too many of our neighbors, a daily meal isn’t a choice between different dishes, but a choice between food and other critical needs such as medicine, electricity, or childcare,” says Richard LeBer, president and CEO of Harry Chapin Food Bank. “Food shouldn’t be an impossible choice. This September, we encourage Southwest Floridians to join our fight against hunger.”
Leading the Charge Against Hunger in Southwest Florida
As the leading hunger-relief organization in our region, Harry Chapin Food Bank serves over 250,000 individuals every month through various food distribution programs. These programs are focused on helping children, families, and seniors—some of the most vulnerable populations. In 2023 alone, the food bank distributed nearly 35.7 million pounds of food, a clear sign of the increasing need in our community.
Our efforts would not be possible without the incredible support of more than 170 agency partners and 5,000 dedicated volunteers. These community champions play a vital role in ensuring we can continue feeding those facing hunger and meet the growing demand.
How You Can Help During Hunger Action Month
There are many ways you can support our efforts this September and beyond. Whether you’re organizing a food drive, volunteering at one of our events, or simply making a donation, your involvement makes a difference. Even a donation of just $1 can provide two healthy meals to individuals and families in need.
Looking for a fun way to get involved? Download our Hunger Action Month calendar to find activities, events, and other ways to support our mission. Every action, no matter how small, brings us closer to ending hunger in our community.
The Power of Community
“We rely heavily on the support of volunteers, our relationships with local agency partners, and the vision and openhandedness of our donors,” says LeBer. “The generous support of our community has always been vital to our work, and as the need across the region continues to grow, we know that help is more important than ever.”
This Hunger Action Month, we invite you to stand with us in the fight against hunger. Together, we can ensure that food is never an impossible choice.
Get involved. Take action. Help end hunger.
