National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Day: Where the Two Overlap
During National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, we look at how hunger and homelessness are connected. More than 580,000 people experience homelessness every night in the U.S., while nearly 37 million Americans struggle with hunger. According to the USDA Economic Research Service, about 10.5% of households faced food insecurity, meaning they do not have reliable access to enough food. Feeding America reports that around 1 in 6 children deal with hunger, and families with kids are often more affected by homelessness. Along with other unique factors impacting each individual or family, you can begin to see how hunger and homelessness compound.
The ripple effect is profound: people without stable homes often cannot get regular meals, leading to a cycle that exacerbates both hunger and homelessness. Individuals experiencing homelessness are also 3 to 4 times more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions, which are worsened by food insecurity in almost all cases.
To combat this dual crisis, solutions must focus on integrated support systems. Food banks, shelters, and community organizations can work together to provide not only meals but also housing assistance. Programs that offer job training and financial literacy can prepare people to achieve self-sustainability, but direct support is the most impactful difference individuals, like you, can make. Today, we encourage you to support your nearest food pantry. By addressing hunger and homelessness at the same time, we can create a better future for everyone.
Let’s raise awareness and take action to break this cycle together.
Our CoC’s network of resources helps prevent individuals and families from facing housing insecurity and gain access to safe, quality housing. If you are able, please support our work to make a direct impact in homelessness prevention.
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