(Author: Ann Davison)

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.

The average cost of a meal in Virginia has risen to $4.06, a 34% increase since 2017, and higher than the national average of $3.99. This escalation contributes to an annual food budget shortfall of over $736 million for food-insecure households in the state.

While Virginia’s overall poverty rate stands at 10.2%, disparities persist. For instance, the city of Richmond reports a poverty rate of 17.1%, significantly higher than the state average.

These statistics underscore the ongoing challenges many Virginians face in securing adequate nutrition, highlighting the critical role of food banks and community support systems in addressing hunger.

Virginia’s Regional Food Banks

Food banks are nonprofit organizations that play a critical role in addressing hunger in Virginia by collecting, storing, and distributing food to more than 400 local agencies in the Commonwealth, such as food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters. They serve as a critical link between food donors and those in need, ensuring that surplus food reaches vulnerable populations.  Key functions of food banks include sourcing food from donors and distributing it to partner agencies; implementing initiatives like weekend backpacks and mobile markets to reach underserved communities; and working to influence policies that address the root causes of hunger.

Virginia is served by seven regional food banks:

  1. Blue Ridge Area Food Bank serving Central and Western VA.
  2. Feed More serving  Central Virginia, including Richmond
  3. Feeding Southwest Virginia serving Southwest Virginia
  4. Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore serving Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore
  5. Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank serving Fredericksburg and surrounding counties
  6. Virginia Peninsula Foodbank serving Hampton Roads and the Virginia Peninsula
  7. Capital Area Food Bank serving Northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C. metro area

Virginia food banks have experienced a surge in demand, with pantry visits increasing by over 20% in the past year.  The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank alone has reported a 40% increase in demand compared to pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the widespread nature of food insecurity across the state.

Churches can play a vital role in supporting and partnering with their area food banks. Here are a few ways to get involved:

  • Engage with your Local Food Bank: Consider organizing a congregational field trip to tour the food bank that serves your community. Explore the opportunity to establish an ongoing relationship with the food bank by holding food drives, providing volunteers, and organizing fundraising events.
  • Host Educational Events: Organize workshops or seminars to raise awareness both inside and outside the church about hunger issues and the role food banks play in your community.
  • Incorporate Hunger into Ministry: Include prayers, sermons, and Bible studies that focus on caring for the hungry.
  • Advocate for Policy Change: Engage in advocacy efforts to support legislation that addresses food insecurity.

Addressing hunger is a collective responsibility. By understanding the role of food banks and actively participating in hunger relief efforts, churches can make a significant impact in their communities.

For more information and resources, visit Bread for the World and the Federation of Virginia Food Banks.