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September is Hunger Action Month – Join Norwescap in Taking Action!

In a world of such abundance, it's a sobering reality that millions of people, both globally and locally, struggle with the harsh reality of food insecurity. According to Feeding America, 812,440 people in New Jersey are food insecure – and 197,280 of them are children. That’s 1 out of 11 people, and 1 in 10 children, without consistent access to adequate food. Covid and its aftermath have exacerbated the struggles that many of our neighbors were already facing, often forcing them to sacrifice buying healthy, nutritious food in order to pay rent and other bills.

In a world of such abundance, it’s a sobering reality that millions of people, both globally and locally, struggle with the harsh reality of food insecurity. According to Feeding America, 812,440 people in New Jersey are food insecure – and 197,280 of them are children. That’s 1 out of 11 people, and 1 in 10 children, without consistent access to adequate food. Covid and its aftermath have exacerbated the struggles that many of our neighbors were already facing, often forcing them to sacrifice buying healthy, nutritious food in order to pay rent and other bills. 

Norwescap has worked alongside our sister Feeding America food banks, Community Food Bank of NJ, Fulfill, Food Bank of South Jersey, and Mercer Street Friends, to advocate and engage our legislators and partners across the state in advancing actions to bolster food security. The creation of New Jersey’s first-in-the-nation Office of the Food Security Advocate underscores our State’s commitment to coordinating the administration of food insecurity programs, advocating for individuals facing food insecurity, and developing new policy initiatives to combat hunger. In fiscal year 2023, New Jersey allocated an unprecedented amount of funds to support the critical work of eliminating food security – including unprecedented investments in SNAP, School Lunches and New Jersey’s five major food banks – helping to drive resources to meet the growing need for food and nutritional support all over our state. But there is still much work to be done, and along with our partners and supporters, Norwescap is committed to expanding our reach and efforts to ensure nobody has to go hungry in our community. 

Norwescap has worked alongside our sister Feeding America food banks, Community Food Bank of NJ, Fulfill, Food Bank of South Jersey, and Mercer Street Friends, to advocate and engage our legislators and partners across the state in advancing actions to bolster food security. The creation of New Jersey’s first-in-the-nation Office of the Food Security Advocate underscores our State’s commitment to coordinating the administration of food insecurity programs, advocating for individuals facing food insecurity, and developing new policy initiatives to combat hunger. In fiscal year 2023, New Jersey allocated an unprecedented amount of funds to support the critical work of eliminating food security - including unprecedented investments in SNAP, School Lunches and New Jersey's five major food banks - helping to drive resources to meet the growing need for food and nutritional support all over our state. But there is still much work to be done, and along with our partners and supporters, Norwescap is committed to expanding our reach and efforts to ensure nobody has to go hungry in our community.
Hunger is not just a statistic; it's a complex issue that affects countless lives across the world, including thousands of families right here in our community. It takes action on every level to work towards our vision of ALL our neighbors having access to fresh, healthy foods – proteins, dairy, fruits and vegetables – and other staples, every single day of the year.

Hunger is not just a statistic; it’s a complex issue that affects countless lives across the world, including thousands of families right here in our community. It takes action on every level to work towards our vision of ALL our neighbors having access to fresh, healthy foods – proteins, dairy, fruits and vegetables – and other staples, every single day of the year. 

September is Hunger Action Month

September is Hunger Action Month, a time when communities, organizations, and individuals come together to raise awareness and take meaningful steps toward eradicating food insecurity. Norwescap stands at the heart of this movement, with our Food Bank in Phillipsburg serving as a beacon of hope and a lifeline for more than 100 partner pantries, shelters, day care centers, and other feeding sites throughout Warren, Sussex, and Hunterdon counties in New Jersey. Together with our partners at the Community Food Bank of New Jersey, Fulfill, Mercer Street Friends, and the Food Bank of South Jersey, we have a vision to end hunger in our great state. Let’s delve into the significance of Hunger Action Month, the vital role of our Norwescap Food Bank, and how together, we can lead the charge against food insecurity in our region.

September is Hunger Action Month
It's easy to think of hunger as a problem that only affects those outside of our sphere, but the truth hits closer to home than we might realize. In New Jersey alone, countless families, children, and seniors struggle to access regular, nutritious meals. Hunger isn't just about an empty stomach; it's linked to poorer health outcomes, compromised educational opportunities, and the perpetuation of cycles of poverty.

The Origin and Significance of Hunger Action Month

Hunger Action Month has a story rooted in purpose and determination. Originating from Feeding America, the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, Hunger Action Month was conceived to shine a spotlight on the alarming rates of food insecurity that persist even in developed nations. The goal is simple: to inspire action, raise awareness, and generate support for initiatives that combat hunger. 

Global and Local Impact of Food Insecurity

It’s easy to think of hunger as a problem that only affects those outside of our sphere, but the truth hits closer to home than we might realize. In New Jersey alone, countless families, children, and seniors struggle to access regular, nutritious meals. Hunger isn’t just about an empty stomach; it’s linked to poorer health outcomes, compromised educational opportunities, and the perpetuation of cycles of poverty.  

It's easy to think of hunger as a problem that only affects those outside of our sphere, but the truth hits closer to home than we might realize. In New Jersey alone, countless families, children, and seniors struggle to access regular, nutritious meals. Hunger isn't just about an empty stomach; it's linked to poorer health outcomes, compromised educational opportunities, and the perpetuation of cycles of poverty.
One person's actions might seem small, but when multiplied by the power of collective effort, they can create waves of change. Hunger Action Month underscores the strength of unity, as people from all walks of life unite to amplify their voices and make a tangible impact. Remember, it's not just about putting food on the table; it's about addressing the root causes of food insecurity, advocating for policy changes, and building a more just and equitable society.

The Power of Collective Action and Systemic Change

One person’s actions might seem small, but when multiplied by the power of collective effort, they can create waves of change. Hunger Action Month underscores the strength of unity, as people from all walks of life unite to amplify their voices and make a tangible impact. Remember, it’s not just about putting food on the table; it’s about addressing the root causes of food insecurity, advocating for policy changes, and building a more just and equitable society.

From Individuals to Systemic Transformations 

Every donation, every volunteer hour served, and every dollar contributed has a ripple effect that goes beyond the immediate impact. These individual actions lay the foundation for systemic transformations. They prioritize food security, encourage businesses to engage in responsible practices, and foster a culture of empathy and social responsibility. In essence, Hunger Action Month bridges the gap between personal actions and the grander vision of a world where no one has to worry about where their next meal will come from.

Every donation, every volunteer hour served, and every dollar contributed has a ripple effect that goes beyond the immediate impact. These individual actions lay the foundation for systemic transformations. They prioritize food security, encourage businesses to engage in responsible practices, and foster a culture of empathy and social responsibility. In essence, Hunger Action Month bridges the gap between personal actions and the grander vision of a world where no one has to worry about where their next meal will come from.

So, this September, during Hunger Action Month, let’s remember that our efforts—no matter how small—contribute to a greater movement. Here are 5 action steps you can do to be a part of Hunger Action Month with Norwescap:

1. Put Your Feet on the Ground to Make Steps

Put your feet on the ground to make steps towards food security in your community! ShopRite of Hunterdon County is once again hosting the upcoming Race for Hunger on Sunday, September 17th, 2023 at the picturesque Deer Path Park, located at 120 W Woodschurch Rd, Flemington, NJ 08822. This event benefiting Norwescap’s Food Bank aims to raise awareness about food security in Norwescap neighborhoods and the broader community while promoting health and wellness through a fun-filled, health-focused event. Join us for Shop Rite of Hunterdon’s 5k Run for Hunger by registering at RunSignUp here: ShopRite of Hunterdon County Run for Hunger (runsignup.com)

Your monetary donations make a world of difference. Food banks have a unique advantage in stretching dollars further due to economies of scale, established relationships with suppliers, and logistical efficiency. Norwescap’s Food Bank can purchase the items our pantry partners need most in bulk at reduced prices, securing more meals per dollar than an individual can at a local store. We can access surplus and donated food items from various sources, further maximizing the impact of every dollar. Every donated dollar is optimized to provide the most meals possible, making a cost-effective and efficient means of addressing food insecurity on a larger scale. Donate today.

2. Contribute to Leverage the Power of a Food Bank

Your monetary donations make a world of difference. Food banks have a unique advantage in stretching dollars further due to economies of scale, established relationships with suppliers, and logistical efficiency. Norwescap’s Food Bank can purchase the items our pantry partners need most in bulk at reduced prices, securing more meals per dollar than an individual can at a local store. We can access surplus and donated food items from various sources, further maximizing the impact of every dollar. Every donated dollar is optimized to provide the most meals possible, making a cost-effective and efficient means of addressing food insecurity on a larger scale. Donate today at this link: Donate (norwescap.org)

3. Be the Change Messenger

Help us raise awareness about the issue of hunger. Share these impactful ideas with friends and family to inspire them to join our cause. Become a voice for those facing food insecurity over your social networks. Follow, Like and Share Norwescap’s social posts while staying informed about the critical hunger-related issues. Find us on Facebook: Norwescap Facebook and on Instagram: Norwescap New Jersey (@norwescap) • Instagram photos and videos and on YouTube: Norwescap – YouTube

Join the conversation using #HungerActionMonth and #OneNorwescap. 

It's easy to think of hunger as a problem that only affects those outside of our sphere, but the truth hits closer to home than we might realize. In New Jersey alone, countless families, children, and seniors struggle to access regular, nutritious meals. Hunger isn't just about an empty stomach; it's linked to poorer health outcomes, compromised educational opportunities, and the perpetuation of cycles of poverty.
Be the driving force for change in your workplace or neighborhood by organizing a food drive. Collect healthy, non-perishable items and be a lifeline for families in our community. Visit our webpage to find out how you can host your own Food Drive to donate to Norwescap Food Bank.

4. Take the Wheel & Be a Food Drive Champion!

Be the driving force for change in your workplace or neighborhood by organizing a food drive. Collect healthy, non-perishable items and be a lifeline for families in our community. Visit https://norwescap.org/what-we-do/health-and-nutrition/food-bank/#fooddrive to find out how you can host your own Food Drive to donate to Norwescap Food Bank.

5. Try a “Day in the Life”

Experience a day with a food budget of $4.16. That is the daily average for someone receiving SNAP benefits. It’s an eye-opening way to understand the daily struggles of those facing food insecurity. 

Experience a day with a food budget of $4.16. That is the daily average for someone receiving SNAP benefits. It's an eye-opening way to understand the daily struggles of those facing food insecurity.

by Dawn Hartfelder – updated 9/15/2023