Living in poverty

Living in poverty is the number one reason for hunger. People living in poverty can't afford enough quality food to live a healthy life. They are more likely to suffer from undernourishment and disease than people who are not living in poverty.

Supplement: This World Bank blog discusses the relationship between poverty and hunger.

Disruption of food supplies

Natural disasters, war and climate change can also have both temporary and permanent impacts on the availability of food in communities around the world.

Soup Kitchens

Soup kitchens are places where food is offered, typically free from cost, with no questions asked. It's estimated that globally, soup kitchens serve between 12 and 21-million people every year.

Food banks

Food banks are charitable organizations that distribute food to those in need. Some food banks provide food for soup kitchens, while others provide it directly to the hungry.

Supplement: Feeding America runs a network of food banks and food pantries in the United States. Learn more about food insecurity in the US by clicking HERE.

Community gardens can address food deserts

Food deserts are areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious foods. In some areas, the only place to purchase groceries is the local convenience store. Convenience stores do not carry fresh produce, and mainly specialize in packaged, processed foods.

Community gardens are wonderful resources for people living in food deserts. They are tended by volunteers and can help provide fresh fruits and vegetables to those in need, increasing nutritional diversity. There are over 18,000 community gardens throughout the United States and Canada.

Placing livestock with families

Livestock play a central role in many hunger eradication programs, both as a strategy for ending poverty and achieving food security and proper nutrition.

Establishing local farms and gardens

Providing land and teaching people how to cultivate it helps provide food for families and their communities. The net result is the availability of more diverse foods that offer vitamins and minerals essential to healthy minds and bodies.

Addressing basic needs

Long-term food security projects take time. Vulnerable families and individuals still need to meet their basic needs today.

Supplement: Rise Against Hunger provides packaged meals in an effort to make sure people aren't going hungry. Read more about the work Rise Against Hunger is doing by clicking HERE.