June is national hunger month and with food insecurity steadily rising as result of the COVID-19 outbreak, generosity is more important than ever. According to a recent survey of mothers in the United States, over 17% couldn’t afford enough food to prevent hunger in their household. This percentage represents a 460% increase when compared to a similar survey conducted in 2018 (The Brookings Institution, 2020). This staggering increase paints the picture of the larger issues that have resulted from the economic repercussions of the pandemic, including climbing unemployment rates, food availability challenges and volunteer shortages. In essence, there are many more people hungry and far fewer resources with which to help them.
The current challenges
In these unprecedented times, food banks and distribution centers face challenges like never before. As need for support has increased exponentially, donations have dwindled. With so many impacted, frequent past donors may find that they’re no longer in the position to contribute money or food. Likewise, struggling retailers and farmers face additional donation challenges, minimizing their typical contributions. At the same time, fewer people are volunteering as they strive to protect their health, and that of their families and community members. These issues are only compounded by the fact that nearly every U.S. region has been impacted by COVID food insecurity similarly; unlike previous U.S. natural disasters where enhanced need was more localized and other unaffected regions were able to offer support.
Ways to help this National Hunger Month
With social distancing at the forefront of many peoples’ minds, volunteering and in-person donations may not be a feasible way to help at this time. Therefore, financial donations might be the best current solution. Monetary donations allow food banks and distribution centers to hire help if their volunteer numbers have suffered. But most importantly, increased funds allow charitable organizations to offer more food to the growing group of those in need.
Wondering how far your donation goes? Farther than you might have guessed. According to Feeding America, every dollar you contribute helps, “secure and distribute 10 meals to people facing hunger[…] Unlike walking into a grocery store and paying retail prices for food, Feeding America works directly with major manufacturers, retailers and other partners across the country to secure safe, healthy food that would otherwise go to waste.”
Every dollar you contribute can feed 10 people.
Motto Mortgage Mission Against Hunger
This year, we’re changing our approach to giving back. Previously, Motto Mortgage’s annual summer food drive, Summer of Giving, has been a way for our nationwide network to give back to the communities they serve every day. However, given the unique circumstances created by the global pandemic, we believe financial donations are a more impactful way to help. Join Motto Mortgage offices, staff and customers in raising funds for those in need of food this June. Even if it’s just a dollar – or a few – you’ll be helping many hungry Americans in a time when they need it most.
Published on June 1, 2020
