Dare to Care mobilizes hundreds of volunteers through events and data-driven advocacy this Hunger Action Month
LOUISVILLE, KY (September 5, 2024) – The leading hunger relief organization in Kentuckiana, Dare to Care Food Bank, is creating new opportunities for volunteers and donors to end hunger in our community.
Across Dare to Care’s 13-county service area, one in 8 people experience food insecurity according to Map the Meal Gap. The USDA defines food insecurity as a lack of consistent access to food for every person in a household to live an active, healthy life. This can be a temporary or long-term situation. In Jefferson County, 101,980 people experience food insecurity. About 40% of these neighbors are above the threshold for SNAP benefits, increasing demand for Dare to Care and its partners to offer support where the federal government has pulled back.
To better understand its neighbors, Dare to Care partnered with IQS Research to determine a baseline of data in the community. The research showed 65% of respondents eat less because there isn’t enough money for food, while 48% of those surveyed choose between paying for food and utilities.
“The data is alarming and unfortunately not unique to our community. Food banks across the country are seeing a significant increase in food insecurity,” Dare to Care President and CEO Vincent James said. “This September our community has a chance to make a meaningful impact for our neighbors experiencing food insecurity.”
With September being Hunger Action month, the food bank is turning attention to its network of more than two hundred partners, including food pantries, shelters and kitchens. For the second time, Dare to Care is hosting a “Food Fight Friday,” bringing out more than 200 volunteers to dozens of locations, supporting 21 partners on September 6th.
“There is nothing more empowering than showing up for your neighbors,” Dare to Care President and CEO Vincent James said. “We’re channeling the power of our volunteers and dedicated donors to act by uplifting our partners and working together to end hunger.”
The generous support of our community, including partners like the Anthem Foundation, makes fresh produce and other resources available for neighbors experiencing food insecurity. To donate, volunteer, or learn more, you can visit daretocare.org.
Hunger Action Month Events with Dare to Care
September 6th – Food Fight Friday
8 a.m. – 1 p.m. | 23 separate locations, available upon request
September 12th – Give for Good Day
All day | Virtual
September 24th – Family Volunteer Night
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Senior Outreach | Warehouse 3360 Commerce Center Pl
Note: Interview and visual opportunities with Dare to Care leadership and its partners will be available upon request.
###
