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The Fight To end hunger and food insecurity for 41 Million Americans

COVID-19 Community Response

In 2019, we discovered that 41 Million Americans are hungry or food insecure. In the uncertain times of COVID-19, even more people are finding themselves unsure of where their next meal is coming from. If you are looking for ways to help, please consider donating to United Way. If you are in need of help, visit our 211 center where you will be connected with the resources you need.

Donate Now Find Help

 

Every year, 41 million Americans worry about where their next meal is coming from and struggle to afford three meals a day.

Hunger and food insecurity, or not having reliable and affordable access to healthy food, affect millions of Americans across the country. Both hunger and food insecurity are common challenges that families face as a result of a health crisis, job loss, or other unexpected event. By learning more about hunger and food insecurity in your community, you can help United Way Fight for 41.

Healthy families mean healthy communities. From mobile food pantries to health education that helps families maximize their food budgets and cook healthy meals, United Way is finding creative solutions to help communities fill the gap.

With our community partners, we're creating opportunities for families to eat fresher, healthier foods on a budget. With United Way, you can help.

UNITED WE STAND AGAINST HUNGER

1 in 8 families in America are hungry. This means hunger affects people all over the country – including in your community.

Fight hunger in your community with United Way

Select a state below to learn more about local hunger issues and how United Way is fighting to end hunger and food insecurity.

D.C. FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are over 91,000 Washingtonians that are are food insecure. Among those, more than 30,000 children have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in the Washington, DC area is $83,372. (County Health Rankings info not available for D.C.) 
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

ARIZONA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Weekend Meals Health Education Community Gardens
Background:
There are 1,078,190 Arizonans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 480,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Arizona is $53,481. 50 % of children in Maricopa County are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch; 604,200 or 15 % of community members face food insecurity
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

WASHINGTON FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Meals for Kids (year-round)
Background:
There are 915,550 Washingtonians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 372,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Washington is $67,064. 35% of children in King County are eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch. 246,870 or 13% of community members face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Volunteer (United Way of King County) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

ALABAMA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.
Background:
There are 859,380 Alabamians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 378,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Alabama is $46,309.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

ALASKA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 102,670 Alaskans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 64,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Alaska is $76,144.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

ARKANSAS FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 549,070 Arkansans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 254,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Arkansas is $44,406.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

CALIFORNIA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
211 Emergency Assistance Network Sparkpoint Food Pantries
Background:
There are 4,885,220 Californians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 1.2 million have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in California is $67,715. 57% of children in the San Francisco county/region are eligible for free and reduced lunch. 134,520 or 16 percent of community members face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, Volunteer (United Way Bay Area) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

COLORADO FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 665,220 Coloradoans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 274,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Colorado is $65,718.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

CONNECTICUT FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Food Bank Community Garden
Background:
There are 437,530 Connecticuters who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 150,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Connecticut is $73,380.  About 29 percent of adult population in New London County are considered obese.  38 percent of children in New London County are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch.  33,370 or 12 percent of community members face food insecurity. 
How To Get Involved:
Donate, Volunteer (United Way of Southeastern Connecticut) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

DELAWARE FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 114,060 Delawareans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 41,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Delaware is $62,112.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

FLORIDA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
WIC/SNAP BENEFITS
Background:
There are 3,056,280 Floridians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 1.3 million have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Florida is $44,250. 59% of children in Palm Beach County are eligible for free and reduced lunch. 194,260 or 14 percent of community members face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Volunteer (healthy eating classes) (United Way of Palm Beach County) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

GEORGIA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Summer Meals
Background:
There are 1,659,710 Georgians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 870,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Georgia is $53,468. About 26% of the adult population in Fulton County are considered obese. About 58% of children in Fulton County are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch. 181,650 or 19 percent of community members (United Way of Greater Atlanta) face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, Volunteer, Advocate (United Way of Greater Atlanta) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

HAWAII FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 182,600 Hawaiians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 94,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Hawaii is $74,659.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

IDAHO FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 232,180 Idahoans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 110,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Idaho is $51,647.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

ILLINOIS FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 1,506,060 Illinoisans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 573,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Illinois is $60,977.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

IOWA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Farmers Markets Food Rescue 5-2-1-0 Advocacy
Background:
There are 376,240 Iowans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 160,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Iowa is $56,354. 45% of children in Polk County are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch. 54,560 or 12% of community members face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, Advocate, Volunteer (United Way of Central Iowa) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

KANSAS FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 385,000 Kansans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 236,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Kansas is $54,828.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

LOUISIANA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 789,330 Louisianans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 431,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Louisiana is $45,374.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

INDIANA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 950,720 Indianans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 449,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Indiana is $52,289.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

KENTUCKY FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 699,590 Kentuckians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 242,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Kentucky is $46,610.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MAINE FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 196,210 Mainers who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 50,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Maine is $52,926.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MARYLAND FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Community Gardens Mobile Farmers market
Background:
There are 682,280 Marylanders who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 195,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Maryland is $78,787. 47% of children in Baltimore County are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch. 243,040 community members in Baltimore City and County face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, volunteer (United Way of Central Maryland) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MASSACHUSETTS FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 701,630 Massachusettsans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 268,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Massachusetts is $75,207.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MICHIGAN FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Summer Meals Obesity prevention/health education
Background:
There are 1,493,790 Michiganders who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 622,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Michigan is $52,436. About 33 percent of adult population in Macomb and Wayne Counties are considered obese, and 26 percent of Oakland County. 42 percent of children in Macomb County, 29 percent of children in Oakland County, and 61 percent of children in Wayne County are eligible for free or reduced lunch. 641,540 people across the three counties United Way of Southeastern Michigan services are food insecure.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, Advocate, Volunteer (United Way of Southeastern Michigan) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MINNESOTA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Food Bank
Background:
There are 540,820 Minnesotans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 298,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Minnesota is $65,583.  134,890 or 11 percent of community members face food insecurity. 
How To Get Involved:
Donate; Volunteer (Greater Twin Cities United Way) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MISSISSIPPI FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 643,390 Mississippians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 316,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Mississippi is $41,793.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MISSOURI FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Food bank (allergies) Healthy food access Nutrition education
Background:
There are 947,900 Missourians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 409,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Missouri is $51,713.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, Volunteer, Advocate (United Way GKC) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NEBRASKA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Emergency Food Services
Background:
There are 233,350 Nebraskans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 100,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Nebraska is $56,979. 48% of children in the Omaha/Douglas County area are eligible for free and reduced lunch. 74,260 or 14 percent of community members in the Omaha/Douglas County area face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate (United Way of the Midlands) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

MONTANA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 133,810 Montanans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 81,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Montana is $50,265.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NEVADA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 394,910 Nevadans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 144,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Nevada is $55,201.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NEW HAMPSHIRE FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 128,910 New Hampshirites who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 65,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in New Hampshire is $70,986.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NEW JERSEY FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Urban gardens Meals (breakfast, summer, afterschool) Nutrition Education
Background:
There are 971,920 New Jerseyans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 320,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in New Jersey is $76,212. 59% of children in Passaic county are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch. 49,930 or 10% of community members in Passaic County face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate; Volunteer; Advocate (United Way of Passaic County) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NEW YORK FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
App – food pantry reservations
Background:
There are 2,502,250 New Yorkers who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 443,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in New York is $62,700. Up to 40% of children in New York state live in poverty, while 13 percent of families in New York state experience food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate; Volunteer (United Way NYC) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NEW MEXICO FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Food Bank Health Education
Background:
There are 322,610 New Mexicans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 289,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in New Mexico is $46,844. 68% of children in Albuquerque/Bernalillo County area are eligible for free and reduced lunch. 103,830 or 15% of community members in the Albuquerque/Bernalillo county area face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate; Volunteer (United Way of Central NM) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NORTH CAROLINA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Community Gardens Mobile food pantry Transportation (advocacy)
Background:
There are 1,659,050 North Carolinians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 642,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in North Carolina is $50,595. 58% of children in the Charlotte and Mecklenburg County area are eligible for free and reduced lunch. 162,380 or 16% of community members face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Volunteer; donate; advocate (United Way of Central Carolinas) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

NORTH DAKOTA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 58,030 North Dakotans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 47,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in North Dakota is $61,898.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

OHIO FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 1,852,870 Ohioans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 781,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Ohio is $52,357.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

OKLAHOMA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 632,030 Oklahomans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 323,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Oklahoma is $49,204.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

PENNSYLVANIA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Healthy Food Access
Background:
There are 1,674,420 Pennsylvanians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 581,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Pennsylvania is $56,897. 750,000 or 1 in 5 members of the Greater Philadelphia community face hunger every day.
How To Get Involved:
Donate, volunteer (United Way of Greater Philadelphia & Southeastern New Jersey) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

OREGON FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 572,790 Oregonians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 206,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Oregon is $57,379.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

SOUTH CAROLINA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Senior Meals Health Education
Background:
There are 746,810 South Carolinians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 422,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in South Carolina is $46,587.  40,449 members of the United Way of the Midlands community have limited access to healthy foods.  In South Carolina, 11.5 percent of seniors live in poverty.   Based on 2014 data, there are around 1,065,420 adults over 60 in South Carolina, comprising about 22% of the population.   20 percent of South Carolinians over the age of 60 are food insecure, meaning more than 200,000 older adults are at risk of hunger and malnutrition.   90 percent of adults over the age of 65 report that they would prefer to stay in their current residence as they age. One-third of American households are home to one or more residents 60 years of age or older.   AARP defines “Aging in Place” as simply a matter of preserving the ability for people to remain in their home or neighborhood as long as possible. Funds will be used to leverage senior meal programs across three of the United Way of the Midlands’ rural counties and a metropolitan county with rural outreach for approximately 2,000 seniors facing food insecurity over a 2-year period. 
How To Get Involved:
Donate, volunteer, advocate; (United Way of the Midlands) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

RHODE ISLAND FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 132,090 Rhode Islanders who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 49,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Rhode Island is $60,046.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

SOUTH DAKOTA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 104,140 South Dakotans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 85,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in South Carolina is $54,926.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

TEXAS FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Summer meals Combat childhood obesity
Background:
There are 4,320,050 Texans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 2.18 million have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Texas is $56,583. 73% of children in Dallas County are eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch. 451,950 or 18 percent of community members face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Volunteer, donate; (United Way of Metro Dallas) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

UTAH FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 391,610 Utahns who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 160,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Utah is $65,931.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

VERMONT FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 74,600 Vermonters who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 20,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Vermont is $57,661.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

VIRGINIA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
Fight obesity Healthy Start (education) Health Education (advocacy)
Background:
There are 935,480 Virginians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 342,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Virginia is $68,127. About 32% of the adult population in Roanoke City is considered obese 81% of children in Roanoke City area are eligible to receive free or reduced lunch. 16,500 or 17% of community members in Roanoke face food insecurity.
How To Get Involved:
Donate; advocate (United Way of Roanoke Valley) Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

WEST VIRGINIA FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 275,280 West Virginians who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 121,000 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in West Virginia is $43,175.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

WISCONSIN FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 633,170 Wisconsinites who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 271,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Wisconsin is $56,808.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

WYOMING FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 72,260 Wyomingites who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 48,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Wyoming is $61,686.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

TENNESSEE FIND YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY

Hunger Support Project(s):
United Way works to ensure all communities have access to healthy, nutritious foods. Contact your local United Way for more information.
Background:
There are 1,016,420 Tennesseans who experience food insecurity. Among those, more than 536,500 have limited access to healthy food options. The median household income in Tennessee is $48,506.
How To Get Involved:
Together we can improve the lives of millions. You can donate to your local United Way that drives community solutions, advocate so that lawmakers will prioritize healthy food access for families most in need or volunteer your time at a local food bank or United Way.

Hover over a state above to learn more about local hunger issues and how United Way is fighting to end hunger and food insecurity.

SUCCESS STORIES

Ms. Nichols lives in South Carolina and was referred to aging services and help at United Way by her doctor. She has several serious health conditions that caused her to lose sight in both eyes. Ms. Nichols struggles to prepare her own meals at home and was often choosing to eat easy to make, pre-prepared and unhealthy foods. After connecting to United Way of the Midlands, Ms. Nichols was able to receive hot, fresh meals from the Newberry County Council on Aging (NCCOA) which helped keep her diabetes and high blood pressure under control. Thanks to the meals and volunteers, Ms. Nichols can continue to stay in her own home.

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Raising children can be expensive and often takes a village. Sylvia and her husband are raising three children in Orange County, California. Sylvia’s husband works in a warehouse but often only gets four days of work a week. Over the last two years, their rent has increased by $400 a month, increasing the financial strain the family is experiencing while trying to put a child through college. To help make ends meet, Sylvia began working. Then, their oldest offered to drop out of school, get a job and contribute to their income. That’s when Sylvia knew the family needed extra help and learned about Orange County United Way’s Healthy Food Provision program. Sylvia says, “We’ve been through hard times. We needed milk but had no money to buy it.” But with the help of OCUW’s food bank, Sylvia can stretch her dollars and bring fresh food home to her family.

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Everyone knows that the key to a child’s success is a strong start to the day, a warm breakfast and encouragement. Thanks to support from United Way of King County, Cascade Elementary School in Renton, Washington pioneered the School District’s first Breakfast after the Bell program. Every morning, student volunteers pick up carts that with hot and cold options for breakfast for students in each classroom. The results are clear - the first week of the program, Cascade Elementary’s breakfast participation soared from 20 percent to a whopping 80 percent, averaging nearly 300 additional kids each day. And teachers are seeing a difference. “Teachers have observed students being much more attentive in the classroom since the launch. Additionally, the nurse has reported a significant decrease in the number of students visiting her on account of being hungry,” said kitchen manager Jackie Hood.

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Local farmers can be impacted by more than the economy – weather, local economy and demand all drive their crops. But farmers across the state are working with the United Way of Greater Kansas City to centralize their products, offering a wider selection to a bigger audience. Alicia Ellingsworth notes, “We’re farmer-owned and farmer-run, and I’ve been a grower for nine years. It can be depressing to put in so much work for the market, then not be able to sell because the weather is bad.” Alicia helps make sure that local farmers can reach audiences they haven’t in the past. She knows how critical that is to the food security of the area. “There’s a new generation of farmers and gatherers of local food coming together,” Alicia said. Food Hub KC is focused on minimizing drive time for farmers and moving as much fresh, local produce as possible into the city. There is a clear need, and a growing interest in their expansion.

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Every child deserves a strong start in life – and Ida Johnson is making that happen thanks to United Way of Miami-Dade. Her child attends an Early Head Start center, and Ida realizes the value the program has had on her family. Thanks to extensions like the Community Cupboard, she’s able to find the help and support she needs for more than just education. “Every other week we are given the privilege of receiving food as well as toiletries and other important items for our home. There are times when funds are tight, and we are short of certain needs and then comes pantry day where we have the ability to receive things we need to make it another few weeks. I am always amazed at the patience and kindness of the staff and volunteers. I want to take a moment and thank A New World Academy along with United Way of Miami-Dade County for making this possible.”

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HUNGER IN THE US

Hunger can happen in any community:
14.2% of Americans in urban areas 9.5% of Americans in suburban areas 15% of Americans in rural areas
Food Insecurity:
Food insecurity is defined as not always having enough food or access to healthy food options, which can lead to hunger. Families may become food insecure at any time, and it is often not permanent, but can have lasting effects.
Families Living In Poverty:
The average family living in poverty makes less than $25,000 per year. They often must choose between unexpected expenses and buying food.
Food Assistance:
Programs like The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, provides families and individuals across the country with basic food assistance. Many farmers markets across the country have embraced a program that allows families to double their SNAP benefits and learn about the benefits of healthy eating.
Average Cost of Food:
The USDA estimates that currently the average cost of food for a family of three is $146/week for a “thrifty” food plan and $191/week for a low-cost food plan.

RESOURCES & INFO

Hungry Families in America
Every day, 41 million Americans worry about where their next meal will come from and struggle to find enough food to be filling and healthy. VIEW OUR INFOGRAPHIC
Meet David
Nutrition options allow David’s parents to use their financial resources to provide a safe home for David and his siblings. SEE HOW
Living On an Average Income
43 Million Americans make less than $24,858 a year. When families must choose between food and other expenses, nutrition can suffer. SEE WHAT IT’S LIKE
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program:
SNAP offers nutrition assistance to millions of eligible, low-income individuals and families and provides economic benefits to communities. FIND OUT MORE
World Food Program USA
WFP does whatever it takes to deliver lifesaving food to children and families most in need. FIND OUT MORE
United States Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service
Federal research on food security and food security measurement in U.S. households and communities security. FIND OUT MORE
National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness
NSCA trains and engages college students to end hunger and homelessness through service, education, fundraising, and advocacy. FIND OUT MORE