Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual event, held the week before Thanksgiving. This is a time when people come together across the country to draw attention to the problems of hunger and homelessness. No one should have to worry about whether they will have food on their plate or a roof over their head. But, the reality is that hunger and homelessness are widespread problems that affect far too many. Countless people, right here in the United States, are living in poverty; forced to choose between even the most basic needs such as buying food, paying rent, or going to the doctor.
Locally, Our Daily Bread soup kitchen served 325 meals, and 90 people resided in four local shelters (Samaritan House, Family Promise, Crossroads and Lima Rescue Home) in a period of one week. These numbers do not count for other feeding sites and/or private shelters in our area. For the first time since 2012, data shows an increase in total homelessness; a 4% increase in sheltered homelessness and a massive 40% increase in unsheltered homelessness.
Ways you can help:
- Volunteer at your area food bank or shelter.
- Donate to support local programs monetarily or with food or other needed items.
- Raise awareness about hunger and homelessness through your church, service club or community event.