Foodlink provides food for an estimated 94,400 different people annually in our 10-county service area
38% of the members of households served by the Foodlink network are children under 18 years old
36% of clients had to choose between paying for food and paying their rent or mortgage
68% of pantries, 59% of kitchens, and 41% of shelters reported an increase since 2001 in the number of clients who come to their emergency food sites
93% of pantries, 89% of kitchens and 82% of shelters said that the elimination of support from Foodlink would have a significant or devastating impact on their organization
Tom Ferraro's Speaking Out Essay in the Democrat and Chronicle
Rochester, NY – March 23, 2006— Foodlink, the regional food bank, released findings of the Hunger in America 2006 study today at a press conference held at 1:30pm at the Salvation Army Northwest Branch at 100 West Avenue. The study provides insights into the national, state, and local issues surrounding emergency feeding and the challenges the network is facing to meet this need.
1. Stay informed: despite the growing demands to provide emergency food, government funding to support such programs has been flat-funded or has suffered cuts over the last decade. National nutrition programs are the fastest and most direct solution for ending hunger, and without these programs hunger will only increase. Sign up for nutrition policy e-alerts at the Food Research and Action Center and America’s Second Harvest. For more information, visit: Hunger in America and New York State Food Banks.
2. Engage others: Promote state and federal policies which support nutrition programs such as food stamps, WIC, and summer meals. There is an urgent need to enroll more eligible people in government food assistance programs such as the Food Stamp Program, WIC, summer meals, and other child nutrition assistance programs. Actively promoting these resources throughout the community is a must. In addition, it is important to call your local representatives or send a letter to express your support of funding and promotion of these much needed nutrition programs.
3. Get involved: Donate time, funds, and food to Foodlink and your emergency food provider. For more information, please call (585) 328-3380
