September is “Hunger Action Month” – the Feeding America Network’s annual campaign to raise awareness to end hunger in the United States and to take action to combat poverty, inequity, and injustice.

In addition to Two’s AZA’s “If I Had the World Give” Stand Up campaign to fight huger in our local community, both Kansas and Missouri are actively supporting the campaign.

Feeding Missouri is a coalition of the six Missouri Food Banks working to provide hunger relief to every county in the state.

“While Feeding Missouri works every day to raise awareness and educate about hunger in Missouri, this month in particular, is an opportunity to encourage action in our communities across the state,” Kimberly Buckman of Feeding Missouri wrote on its blog. “Hunger can affect anyone at any time due to a change in circumstances. A sudden job loss, a health emergency, or rising costs can lead to dire financial straits, and the latest food insecurity data paints an increasingly alarming picture.”

In Kansas City, Harvesters is backing Hunger Action Month by setting a goal of getting at least four people per day to commit to taking action during one day in the month of September (a total of 120 people). See how you can help!

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that 44 million people, including a staggering 13 million children, experienced food insecurity in 2022 – a 31 percent total increase for all individuals and a 44 percent jump for children from the previous year, Buckman said. This is the highest rate and number of individuals and children since 2014 and the largest one-year increase in food insecurity since 2008.

Feeding Missouri pointed out that in the state of Missouri, nearly 1 in 7 households are food insecure.

“This means more than 924,000 individuals, including over 254,000 children, are at risk of hunger,” Buckman said. “The impact is profound, leading to adverse health outcomes, diminished educational performance and increased financial stress.”

She added: “Food insecurity is a complex issue that needs the attention and support of policymakers, businesses and communities across Missouri. The good news is that anyone, regardless of their age, can take action during this month and beyond.  Food banks are not just about providing food; they offer hope and stability to families facing uncertain times.  Whether volunteering time, giving donations, or raising awareness, every action makes a difference. ”