While most people commit to making a fresh start in the New Year, too many hungry children in Washington will still go to bed with an empty stomach.
Economic uncertainty and the rising cost of living have more and more families facing food insecurity. Many of these families are just barely ineligible for Washington State’s Basic Food Program (food stamps), yet they still struggle to put food on the table. And of those that do qualify, approximately 1/3 won’t take advantage of it, often because they either don’t know they qualify or because the assistance amount itself is so low (the average is only $1.04 per person per meal), they don’t see it being worth the social stigma.
The result?
* More than 400,000 of Washington’s children will go hungry on a regular basis
* Our local food banks are increasingly overwhelmed and undersupplied
* Families often have to choose critical necessities (rent or mortgage) over buying food
* The food that is available typically lacks the nutritional value necessary for healthy childhood development
Yes, childhood hunger is a growing problem – but it’s an easy problem to solve. And, helping to end childhood hunger in Washington is one of the easiest resolutions you can make. All it takes is a simple, recurring monthly donation of $10, $5 or even $1. Any amount will help.
Feed Washington is a true non-profit that works with other non-profits, community programs and emergency food providers to put every penny of every donation to work feeding hungry children in Washington. You probably won’t even notice the difference on your credit card, but it will make a difference to a hungry child. Help end childhood hunger in the New Year. Donate today.
