September is Hunger Action Month!
While we know all too well that hunger is a reality that impacts families year-round, every September we take the time to lift our voices and speak out against hunger in our communities.
And because hunger impacts so many kids here in Northwest North Carolina– and because those kids might be in our neighborhoods and our children’s schools– we think that it’s particularly important that we help our children find their voice and become engaged.
Here are some ways you and your family can take action this Hunger Action Month:
Volunteer as a family. Second Harvest has over 450 partner pantries and many are entirely volunteer-run. Some age restrictions may apply, but at Second Harvest families with children over the age of 12 are welcome to come help us sort donations, and the Food Bank Garden takes volunteers (with an adult ) of all ages. Check out our list of partners to find a pantry near you and call them to get involved.
Collect Food Donations. Involve your kids or grandkids in selecting healthy, nutritious food items for donation. You can make it a scavenger hunt, and it’s a good way to talk to your children about nutrition, too. For a list of our most needed, healthy items click here.
Host a Hot Chocolate Stand or Bake Sale. Every $10 donated to Second Harvest provides 70 meals for families in need, but our favorite dollars (and dimes and nickels and quarters) are the ones that come from children’s fundraisers. Drink stands and bake sales are a fun way for kids to get involved; they can remind their customers why their work is so necessary for kids just like them. If your family is conducting a fundraiser for us, be sure to let us know!
