Feeding Northeast Florida begins Hunger Action Month

Press release from Feeding Northeast Florida

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Feeding Northeast Florida (FNEFL) kicks off Hunger Action Month, an annual observance in which people and organizations all over the country stand together against hunger each September. Started in 2008 by Feeding America, Feeding Northeast Florida leads the effort to highlight hunger in Northeast and North Central Florida across the 12 counties the organization serves.

More than 240,000 individuals, including approximately 65,000 children, living in the organization’s service area struggle with some level of food insecurity –– equating to one in ten adults and one in seven children. With inflationary pressures, historic rent increases, and the rising cost of food and other necessities, the need for food assistance has continued to affect many families, children, seniors, and veterans in our community. In 2022, FNEFL estimates it served more than 85,000 meals per day and distributed more than 28 million pounds of food. 

Throughout the month of September, FNEFL is bringing attention to hunger and its effects on many in our community through targeted initiatives in honor of Hunger Action Month, including two Southeastern Grocers-sponsored food distribution events, a virtual food drive and shopping experience, and an interactive coloring wall at both Jacksonville and Gainesville facilities, among others. Local landmarks, including the Acosta Bridge, Florida Blue, Daily’s Place, and EverBank Stadium, will display orange lights during the month to raise awareness and stand in solidarity with FNEFL in their efforts to alleviate hunger. Additionally, Mayor Donna Deegan has proclaimed September 15, 2023, as Hunger Action Day in Jacksonville. 

“Every person deserves access to quality, affordable, nourishing food,” said Susan King, President & CEO of Feeding Northeast Florida. “Unfortunately, many in our community struggle to feed themselves and their families. During difficult times, we step in to help fill the meal gap so that families can focus their budgets on everything else. Throughout Hunger Action Month, we are proud to join food banks around the country in bringing awareness to this important need, keeping hunger and its effects top of mind.”

Feeding Northeast Florida encourages the public to wear orange, the color of hunger, on Hunger Action Day (Friday, September 15), volunteer, and pledge to advocate, fundraise, or donate this month and throughout the year. More information on the food bank’s efforts can be found at feedingnefl.org/hungeractionmonth. 

For additional details about Feeding Northeast Florida’s efforts, make a donation to the food bank, or sign up to volunteer, visit feedingnefl.org. Every $1 donated helps provide six meals.