Join the Fight Against Hunger: Volunteer Marathon Starts September 26!

Join the Fight Against Hunger: Volunteer Marathon Starts September 26!

The call to action is ringing loud and clear this September as Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida gears up for its annual campaign, Hunger Action Month. Kicking off with a unique 24-hour volunteer marathon on September 26-27, the organization hopes to mobilize the community to address food insecurity, which affects many families right here in our neighborhoods. With limited overnight volunteering opportunities still available for sorting and packing food boxes, there’s never been a better time to lend a hand.

Set at the Second Harvest Food Bank located at 411 Mercy Drive, Orlando, FL 32805, this marathon will run from 8 a.m. on September 26 to 8 a.m. the following morning. Participants are not only encouraged to help out in person but can also support the campaign by donating $24—symbolizing 24 hours of action—to feed those in need. According to Patch, Second Harvest distributes an astonishing 300,000 meals daily to children, seniors, and families at risk of hunger.

A Month of Awareness and Action

September is more than just a month; it’s a movement. Hunger Action Month is an initiative by Feeding America aimed at raising awareness about hunger and inspiring community efforts to combat it. This campaign is particularly poignant, as in North Central Ohio alone, 1 in 7 individuals and 1 in 5 children face food insecurity. Everyone can play a part, whether it’s volunteering, donating, or advocating for those in need. Mark your calendars for September 9, designated as Hunger Action Day, when various activities and community events will take place, including an Open House at 3:30 PM featuring tours and insights into fighting hunger in our communities. Get inspired by local engagements and find ways to contribute. It truly makes a difference.

The role of community involvement can’t be overstated. Facing such dire statistics, everyone is encouraged to wear orange on Hunger Action Day, share photos with #HungerActionMonth, or even organize food drives in the workplace. These small actions collectively have a big impact, as they bring awareness to a crucial issue that affects so many families across the states.

Addressing Hunger Through Innovative Solutions

In addition to local efforts, national organizations are stepping up to tackle hunger challenges on broader fronts. The CDC Foundation is collaborating with community-based organizations to create impactful strategies and innovations to combat food insecurity. Their focus is not just on feeding people but on enhancing food sovereignty, which allows communities to take control of their own food systems. Community leaders, like Zsofia Pasztor from Farmer Frog, emphasize the necessity for sustainable and culturally appropriate food access. The initiative aims to give communities a voice in the policies that influence their well-being, which resonates deeply with the essence of Hunger Action Month.

In summary, whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating, every action counts in the fight against hunger this September. Join Second Harvest on their mission and discover the multiple ways to contribute. Every meal shared brings us one step closer to a world where food insecurity is a thing of the past. For further information or to sign up for volunteer opportunities, visit Second Harvest Food Bank.