Title
To Recognize September as Hunger Action Month
Body
WHEREAS, September is Hunger Action Month, a time to recognize the reality of food insecurity in our community and be inspired to take action; and
WHEREAS, Over 13 million households were uncertain or unable to acquire food at some point in 2021; and
WHEREAS, food insecurity impacts as many as one in five Ohioans and nearly one third of Franklin County residents are eligible for charitable food assistance; and
WHEREAS, food insecurity exists in all corners of our community; and
WHEREAS, efforts to combat food insecurity in Columbus are multifaceted and inspiring; and
WHEREAS, Columbus is home to number of community gardens, urban farms, food rescue groups, and food distribution nonprofits that work to combat the reality of food insecurity in all of our neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, Mid-Ohio Food Collective is a large actor in combating food insecurity in Central Ohio through their food bank, farm, farmacy, kitchens, and markets that stretch their impact across the community; and
WHEREAS, Mid-Ohio Food Collective distributed 51,615,368 pounds of food to Franklin County in 2024 through its programs and partner network; and
WHEREAS, 69% of food distributed was fresh foods like meat, dairy, eggs, fruits, vegetables, bread, and other perishable items; and
WHEREAS, everyone can play a part in combating food insecurity in our community by volunteering your time at one of the many incredible community groups who work feed our neighbors; and
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: That this Council does hereby recognize September as Hunger Action Month.