Food insecurity is a serious problem that affects every county in the United States. Even though you can’t always see it, it still exists. According to Feeding America, 1 in 8 people in the U.S. experience food insecurity. Food insecurity is defined by the USDA as a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food. For some families this can be temporary while for others it may be more of a long-term situation. 

There are several causes of food insecurity. Food insecurity can occur as a result of something as simple as a job loss, an accident, or an unexpected large bill. When situations like this arise, it can put a family in the difficult position of having to choose between paying bills and eating. Poverty can result in a lack of access to nutritious and affordable food, putting families at risk of hunger, homelessness, and poor health.

Despite the fact that poverty and food insecurity often go hand in hand, families who are above the poverty line can still be insecure. There are a lot of people out there experiencing food insecurity that doesn’t not know that there are organizations and resources available for them to get back on their feet. Community Missions is one of those organizations that are helping individuals facing food insecurity through their community kitchen and food pantry program. Last year, both programs distributed a total of 197,863 meals.

According to Feeding America, not all of those who are food insecure are eligible for national programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP helps people in need afford food by giving them financial assistance. Knowing the resources that are out there can help you or someone you know get back on their feet.

-Food Pantry 

The food pantry at Community Missions is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 1p.m to 3p.m. They provide food for not only individuals residing there but also for anyone in the community that is in need of products to prepare their food at home. FeedMore WNY, the Emergency Food & Shelter, donations, and food drives are the different sources of food for the program. Last year, the food pantry program provided 65,113 meals to 7,216 individuals. 

Programs like this are what feeds some individuals in the community, but it wouldn't be possible if it wasn’t for the volunteers and donations. There are several ways you can get involved and help make a positive impact on food insecurity within your community.

-Volunteer  

Volunteer at your local soup kitchen, food pantry or food bank to help feed our neighbors in need. Most organizations containing hunger relief programs like these rely on support from volunteers for their day-to-day operations. Volunteering does not only give you the opportunity to make an impact in your community, but it also gives you the opportunity to improve your well-being, thus making it beneficial for your own health. By volunteering you are not just helping your community and people in need but also yourself.