Every September is Hunger Action Month, As recently as 2021, over 13 million households in the United States were facing food insecurity — that means a slew of families are at risk of poor physical and mental health.
You may be asking: What can I do about it? How can I help? Read on to find out.
How Hunger Starts
Poverty continues to be the largest contributor to hunger. Data shows that 1 in 3 families suffer from food insecurity in Rhode Island. With the increase in prices of everything and inflation many, many people are forced to choose between buying medications, paying rent, paying utilities, and buying food. When a person lives week-to-week, they’re forced to sacrifice certain necessities — particularly food.
Food Deserts
Food deserts are residential neighborhoods where access to food is significantly low. Because of their significance, Food Deserts have been deemed an environmental health issue. And we have deserts here in Rhode Island. When a grocery store isn’t easily accessible, residents become dependent on dollar stores, gas stations, or fast food restaurants — further affecting health and nutrition.
Combatting Hunger
In the Ocean State, 1 in 3 families face food insecurity.
Did you know that Better Lives RI fed 45,600 hungry Rhode Islanders last year? Yes, you read that correctly, they fed 45,600 hungry Rhode Islanders and are on track to feed that many and more this year. But they cannot do it alone.
The Better Lives RI team works diligently to stock our food pantries, as well as our weekly Friday Meal Sites. Case Workers assist our most vulnerable by securing them the documentation necessary to apply for jobs and housing, to become self-sustainable. They cannot continue their mission on their own they need you.
You can address the issue of hunger by helping BLRI help others through your donation and remember every dollar makes a difference. Thank you.
Help us this Hunger Action Month by setting up a recurring donation with Better Lives RI!