Census Bureau Reports 45 Million People in Our Nation Live in Poverty - Feeding America Responds

CHICAGO, Sept. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Statement Attributable to Bob Aiken, CEO of Feeding America:

"Today the U.S. Census Bureau reported that 14.5 percent of the nation's population – 45 million people – are living in poverty. The report also found that 20 percent of all American children live in poverty.

"The federal government currently defines poverty as a family of four living at or below an annual household income of $23,850.

"These numbers clearly demonstrate the need for Congress to work together, along with business and non-profit leaders to find common-sense solutions to ensure that struggling families can put food on the table. Strengthening federal nutrition assistance programs and tax policy that makes it easier for businesses and farmers to donate food are critical to addressing food insecurity.

"These number closely align to our Hunger in America 2014 study, released last month, which determined that Feeding America is now providing food to more than 46 million Americans annually. Our organization delivered more than 3.3 billion meals to low-income families last year."

View the Hunger in America 2014 video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zx2o2huVm2o&noredirect=1

About Feeding America

Feeding America is the nationwide network of 200 food banks that leads the fight against hunger in the United States. Together, we provide food to more than 46 million people through 60,000 food pantries and meal programs in communities across America. Feeding America also supports programs that improve food security among the people we serve; educates the public about the problem of hunger; and advocates for legislation that protects people from going hungry. Individuals, charities, businesses and government all have a role in ending hunger. Donate. Volunteer. Advocate. Educate.  Together we can solve hunger. Visit www.feedingamerica.org, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

Contact:
Ross Fraser
312.641.6422

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SOURCE Feeding America