795 million people around the world do not have enough to eat on a daily basis. In the United States, there are millions of Americans living in poverty or homeless. An estimated 44 million people are at risk of suffering from hunger in this country and one in six children live in poverty. People should not have to choose between purchasing food for themselves and their families and paying their bills. In a country with the resources, this should not be a choice that Americans have to make. These are staggering statistics that we can do something about.

Started at Villanova University in 1975, Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, November 12-20, is a movement with the mission of taking action to raise awareness, educate, raise funds and help serve those in need. It’s an annual event sponsored by the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness and the National Coalition for the Homeless and held at more than 700 locations around the country during which communities come together to support and advocate for those without a home or without adequate access to affordable food and supplies. Real change starts on the ground floor through education and advocacy on a local level. The more people and voices that can come together to raise awareness for this important issue, the more the decision makers will hear and listen. 

So what can YOU do to participate in Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week? Here are some ways to help support this initiative:

VOLUNTEER AT A LOCAL EVENT

The Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week website includes a search tool and information to help you find details about events taking place in your area. Zoom in on the map in your region and click on the pin to view the location and details of the event. If there’s no event listed near you, search for food pantries or kitchens, homeless shelters or community centers near you that may need volunteers. This is a great way to continue to support and help even beyond November 20th.

HOST AN EVENT IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Even better yet, organize an event in your community. School groups, churches, college groups and other community organizations are great ways to get a group together to advocate, educate, promote and help people who may be in need of shelter, food or basic necessities in your area. Register your event on the Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week website so others might be able to find it and get involved. The website also offers key resources for organizers such as organizing manuals.

DONATE

Show your support for this cause by making a donation. Every year, funds are needed to continue the work to end homelessness and hunger and provide food, supplies and shelter to those who need it most. The work doesn’t stop after a week. It’s a year-round effort that needs support to shine a light on and make a difference in this critical issue.

For more information, please visit the Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week website to learn more and get involved.