The North Texas Food Bank will join Feeding America for Hunger Action Month in September to raise awareness of people experiencing food insecurity. Food banks around the country are working to make a real and lasting impact on hunger in their communities, and they are asking for the public’s support.
“Many people may not give a daily meal much thought. For people facing hunger, a daily meal is not as simple,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America.
“Instead, it becomes a different type of choice – an impossible decision between food or other crucial needs, such as electricity, childcare or medicine. Nobody should be forced to make a choice to go hungry. With the public’s support, we can come together to help increase food access for all people, so they no longer have to make such tough decisions.”
The hunger needs across NTFB’s 13-county service area have exceeded the highest levels of demand seen during the pandemic as inflation continues to strain household budgets and limit the resources of families and individuals to access the nutritious food they need.
The following are a few ways to take action:
- Celebrate NTFB’s 40th birthday on Sept. 10 for a free, family-friendly afternoon with activities for kids and adults. The event will feature the Ray Johnston Band, a book reading of NTFB’s children’s book, “Hunger Bugs Me” and activities for children.
- Register at ntfb.org/event/ntfb-40th-birthday-party.
- CANstruction Dallas is on display through Sept. 11 at NorthPark Center. People can view the 19 book-themed structures built out of canned foods and other non-perishable food items. NorthPark Center visitors can vote on their favorite structure by donating to that team’s fundraising page by visiting ntfb.org/canstruction. Every dollar donated equals one vote and helps the NTFB provide access to more than three nutritious meals.
- Cities, neighborhoods, corporations and organizations will collect jars of peanut butter that can then be distributed through the NTFB’s Food 4 Kids backpack program and feeding network of more than 400 partner agencies and organizations. North Texas residents and businesses can support the food drive through September by collecting physical jars of peanut butter or through a virtual food drive.
- More information can be found at ntfb.org/peanutbutterdrive.
- North Texas Giving Day is on Sept. 22. People can celebrate community-wide philanthropy and donate to NTFB. Every $1 donated provides access to three nutritious meals and match opportunities throughout the day will further the impact of a gift.
- Visit northtexasgivingday.org/organization/northtexasfoodbank for more information.
- Take part in Hunger Action Day on Sept. 23. This is a day during Hunger Action Month where collective actions across the country are focused for greater impact. No action is too big or small. Sign up to volunteer at the Food Bank or a food pantry in your local community.
- Register campaigns benefitting the NTFB will be running throughout September for Hunger Action Month. Contribute to the NTFB at the checkout register when shopping at Kroger, Albertsons/Tom Thumb or H-E-B/Central Market stores.
- The State Fair Food Drive begins on Sept. 30. The North Texas Food Bank is partnering with the State Fair of Texas again this year to collect food donations to help feed a growing population of residents in need. On opening day, visitors can bring two 16-ounce jars of peanut butter for a discounted ticket and each Wednesday, patrons who bring five cans of food will get a $5 admission.
The full Hunger Action Month Calendar can be found at ntfb.org/ham.
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