In a world of plenty, nearly 800 million people do not have enough food to lead an active healthy life. That's about one in nine people worldwide. Fortunately, there are many ways that communities can work together to help alleviate hunger and food insecurity.
In addition to hosting hunger walks, leading food drives and planting community gardens, United Ways are rallying volunteers to help address hunger through meal packaging events. This great family and group activity leaves participants of all ages with a feeling of personal satisfaction, knowing they contributed something important to hundreds, if not thousands of people. At the same time, volunteers increase their awareness and understanding about hunger and food insecurity in their communities.
United Way of Washington County (Wisconsin) recently hosted three successful meal packaging events that yielded more than 170,000 nutritious meals that were distributed throughout their community. As part of their 21st annual Day of Caring, United Way of Broward County (Florida) volunteers packaged more than 300,000 meals for food insecure individuals and families in the area. And as part of the United Way of Erie County (Pennsylvania) Centennial-Pack-A-Thon, volunteers packaged 100,000 meals that were distributed to a local food bank.
Would you like to make a small commitment that makes a big difference? Consider hosting or volunteering at a meal packaging event to help end hunger at home or abroad. Contact your local United Way for advice about how to get started.