For those that struggle with hunger in this country, fulfilling basic needs unfortunately becomes balancing act.
Do I pay the bills or pay for groceries?
The Feeding America “Tough Choices” campaign this winter (January and February) helps raise awareness by drawing attention to some of the more startling statistics within our network of clients who access emergency food services.
Among them:
- 66% of households choose between food and medical care
- 57% of households choose between food and housing
- 69% of households choose between food and utilities
Our network of more than 200 food banks across the country helps provide meals so that those in need can avoid this “either or” scenario.
Feeding America has an interactive “Facts and Faces” graphic available on its website that tells the story of four people of different ages and backgrounds and how they are affected by hunger. Read more about Jessica, Alicia, Martin and Harold here.
The 2014 Hunger in America study — the largest research of its kind — was localized through funding from the United Way. Other statistics we learned from OUR service area included: 72% of households bought inexpensive and unhealthy foods as a coping strategy to avoid hunger; and 20% of clients had to choose between buying food or medical care EACH month.
When you support the Foodlink, you not only help put a meal on a table, but you also take a hard decision off someone’s plate.
