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Hunger in our own backyard
www.NorthgateLivingCA.com @NorthgateLivingCA #NorthgateLivingCA
By Kathleen Odne, Resident since 1979
California produces nearly half of the nation’s fruits and vegetables, yet 1 in 7 Californians currently struggle with food insecurity. “Food insecurity” is the occasional or constant lack of access to the food one needs for a healthy, active life.
Food insecurity has serious impacts on an individual’s well-being, which may result in poor school attendance and performance, lowered workplace productivity, and physical and mental health problems. Individuals struggling with food insecurity have to make tough decisions that no one should face. No family should have to decide between buying groceries or paying rent, no senior should have to choose between food and medicine, and no parent should have to skip a meal in order for their children to eat.
Food banks fulfill an essential role in providing nutritious food to hungry people. Our local food bank partners with over 180 area nonprofits like emergency food pantries, community kitchens and group homes to distribute food to more people in need throughout Contra Costa and Solano counties. Every week thousands of parents rely on the Food Bank and our partner agencies to help feed their families. Here are some facts about the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, who are working every day to reduce hunger in our communities.
• Approximately 178,000 people served each month.
• 22 million pounds of food distributed; enough for more than 17 million meals.
• More than half of the food distributed is fresh produce.
• 96 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to food programs.
• 1 in 4 people receiving emergency food are children.
• 1 in 3 people served have to choose between paying for food and paying their rent or mortgage.
• Every dollar donated provides the equivalent of two healthy meals.
For more information or to volunteer at the food bank www. foodbankccs.org
