September is Hunger Action Month
A Call to Action for Our Congregations
If you have been to the grocery store lately, you can’t help but notice the cost of many basic food items are on the rise – particularly fresh produce and staples like dairy and eggs. While you may still put those items in your basket, there’s another shopper nearby who must make the tough choice to go without these healthier choices due to the high prices.
The average cost of a meal in Virginia has risen 34% since 2017. As of 2023, approximately 11.1% of Virginians or one in nine individuals experience food insecurity, meaning they lack consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life. Among children, the rate is even higher at 13.6%, equating to over 252,000 children facing hunger across the Commonwealth.
As a result of recent Congressional actions, more than 800,000 Virginians will no longer have access to federal nutrition assistance benefits, forcing many to choose between food, housing, and medicine. As we observe September Hunger Action Month, it’s crucial for the faith community to come together and address the pressing issue of food insecurity.
How can we help?
- Learn more about hunger in your area by inviting someone from a local social service agency or the manager of a local grocery store or market to share what they are seeing in your community.
- Voice your concerns with those who have power over critical food and nutrition programs. Visit the ELCA’s Hunger Programs in the Federal Budget website and send an email to your Member of Congress.
- Pray for those who are hungry and those who work to alleviate poverty in your prayers.
We pray:
God of peace, we struggle to understand all that is happening in this world. But your scripture says to trust that you are with us and with all who face the chaos of nations raging, kingdoms tottering. Comfort all who are afraid. Comfort all who are hungry. Comfort all who grieve. Comfort all who long for your peace. We pray in the name of the one whose love knows no bounds. In Jesus’ name.
For more information and resources, visit Bread for the World and the Federation of Virginia Food Banks. If you would like to be involved in the VA Synod Hunger Task Force, contact Betsy Liljeberg at b4liljeberg@gmail.com.
