Community encouraged to “Play Your Part” throughout September
The Erie County Executive’s Office and the City of Erie Mayor’s Office have recognized September as Hunger Action Month, joining Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, Feeding Pennsylvania, and the nationwide Feeding America network in encouraging the community to take action to support neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
The Erie County proclamation was presented Wednesday, September 2, at a press conference at Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania. The City of Erie Mayor’s Office also recognized Hunger Action Month as part of the community’s collective effort to raise awareness about food insecurity and highlight ways residents can Play Your Part.
In Erie County, 1 in 7 people experience food insecurity, including 1 in 4 children. At the same time, the rising cost of groceries, energy, and other everyday necessities continues to put pressure on household budgets.
“Food insecurity impacts every corner of our county,” said County Executive Vogel. “Hunger Action Month is a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play. Whether it’s volunteering, hosting a food drive, donating, or spreading awareness, and every action matters.”
“There is absolutely no excuse for our neighbors, especially our children, to go hungry, but far too many families are forced to make impossible choices between putting food on the table and paying their bills,” said Mayor Daria S. Devlin. “During Hunger Action Month, we’re reminded that addressing food insecurity takes all of us. I’m grateful to Second Harvest Food Bank and our many community partners for the work they do every day to make sure our neighbors have access to healthy food and the resources they need to succeed.”
This Hunger Action Month, Second Harvest is asking the community to Play Your Part. Everyone has a role in helping ensure neighbors have access to the food they need to thrive, and there are many ways to get involved.
“September is a chance for our community to come together and recognize the people and organizations working every day to make sure our neighbors have access to food,” said Gregory D. Hall, Chief Executive Officer of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania. “Hunger Action Month reminds us that this is something we can all be part of. Whether you’re giving your time, your resources
or your voice, there’s a meaningful way to Play Your Part right here in Erie County.”
Ways to Play Your Part
Community members, businesses and organizations can participate throughout September by:
- Volunteering with Second Harvest or a local food pantry or meal program.
- Donating to help provide food to neighbors throughout northwest Pennsylvania.
- Organizing a food drive or fundraiser at a workplace, school, organization, faith community or
neighborhood. - Spreading awareness by sharing information about Hunger Action Month and local food
resources.
“Ending hunger takes more than one solution. It takes all of us looking out for one another, especially when so many families are feeling stretched by rising costs,” said Lauren Duff, Chief Public Affairs Officer of Feeding Pennsylvania. “Hunger Action Month is a call to turn that care into action. Whatever your role, there’s a way to Play Your Part and help ensure our neighbors have the food they need to thrive.”
Hunger Action Month is a time to recognize the work happening throughout the community and find meaningful ways to contribute. Whether through time, resources, advocacy or simply helping spread the word, every action is a way to Play Your Part.
To learn more ways to get involved, visit nwpafoodbank.org.
