Standing Together: How Hunger Action Month Inspires Change Across Communities
Every September, food banks across the nation take part in Hunger Action Month, a movement started by Feeding America to shine a light on the millions of people facing food insecurity. While hunger is a year-round issue, Hunger Action Month provides a dedicated time for communities to rally, take action, and raise awareness about an issue that often remains invisible.
Food insecurity affects people from all walks of life. Parents working multiple jobs still struggle to keep food on the table. Seniors on fixed incomes must often choose between paying for groceries or medication. Children go to school without the nutrition they need to concentrate and thrive. Feeding America reports that more than 44 million people, including 1 in 5 children, face food insecurity in the United States today.
Hunger Action Month mobilizes food banks, volunteers, businesses, and individuals to come together in creative ways. Across the country, food banks host events like community food drives, warehouse volunteer days, and fundraising campaigns. Some encourage neighbors to “Go Orange for Hunger,” with buildings lit up in orange to symbolize hope and raise awareness. Others run storytelling campaigns, uplifting the voices of families who rely on food banks to share the reality of food insecurity.
What makes Hunger Action Month powerful is its focus on both education and action. It’s not only about providing meals in the moment, but also about creating systemic change by advocating for policies that expand access to nutritious food and reduce poverty. By learning about hunger, sharing information with others, and engaging in hands-on support, communities strengthen the safety net that so many rely on.
Ways You Can Take Action During Hunger Action Month
- Volunteer at your local food bank or pantry. Even a few hours can make a difference in getting food to families faster.
- Donate funds, which allow food banks to stretch resources further through partnerships with farmers, retailers, and wholesalers.
- Host a neighborhood food drive, collecting shelf-stable items like pasta, rice, canned vegetables, or peanut butter.
- Advocate for hunger-relief policies at the local, state, and national levels.
Hunger Action Month reminds us that hunger is not just about empty stomachs — it’s about dignity, opportunity, and community well-being. By coming together, we can build a future where no one has to wonder where their next meal will come from.
