Feeding America CEO: Think of those who struggle with hunger this holiday season

CHICAGO, Nov. 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following statement is attributable to Bob Aiken, CEO of Feeding America, the nation's largest hunger-relief organization:

With the holiday season here and with many of us sitting down to a table full of food this Thanksgiving, it's hard not to reflect on the 49 million people in our country who struggle with hunger.  And it's especially hard not to think of those families who earlier this month saw their SNAP benefits cut, further straining their food budgets.

We've seen throughout our network of food banks the impact that these cuts are already beginning to have - with longer lines and an anticipated growth in need. Our food banks are stretched and charity alone can't make up for this cut to federal assistance. And with the possibility of further cuts to the program via the farm bill, there is real concern that the need for food will not be met.

We need those federal programs - along with the support of our communities and corporate partners - to help make sure that our neighbors have enough to eat. It's the right thing to do.

We are extremely grateful that through the generosity of our supporters, Feeding America's network is able to help provide a meal for millions of people this holiday season. With turkey distributions being held at food banks around the country, we are glad that many of our neighbors in need will have the opportunity to enjoy the holiday.

But we also know that hunger isn't seasonal -- it's a year-round problem. It's our job to make sure that we shine a light on this issue all year, not just around the holidays.  Together we can solve hunger.

About Feeding America
Feeding America is a nationwide network of more than 200 food banks that leads the fight against hunger in the United States. Together, we provide food to more than 37 million people through 61,000 food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters 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 http://www.feedingamerica.org/. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/FeedingAmerica or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FeedingAmerica.

Contact(s):
Ross Fraser
Feeding America
312.641.6422                                       
[email protected] 

SOURCE Feeding America