September is Hunger Action Month

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) -More than one out of five children in the U.S. lives in a household with food insecurity. That means they don’t always know where they’ll find their next meal. The National food bank organization “Feeding America”, recognizes September as Hunger Action Month.

According to the USDA, more than16 million children live with food insecurity and aren’t getting nutritious meals each day. Helping Hands is a food bank in Columbus that partners with several area churches to feed those in need. Participants say they are extremely grateful for the service.

“Sometimes we don’t have nothing to eat and me and my boyfriend, we come walk down here and eat every day. Every Monday & Fridays,” says Brenda Harvill, a food bank guest.

Helping Hands and Loaves and Fishes feeds about 200 people at each serving, and it takes 12-15 volunteers to make it all happen. Financial support for the organization comes from donations made by local church groups, the United Way of Lowndes County and private individuals. Anne Wilder has been volunteering for the last year.

“I think we think a lot about out- of- state or around the world where we can help but so often right under our own noses is where there’s the greatest need,” says Wilder.

Organizers say the need to fight hunger has grown due to the economic climate. They encourage people to volunteer their time and/or donate throughout the year.  If you’d like more information on how to donate or volunteer your time, here’s a list of local groups and churches who serve: