Food insecurity is an immense problem, and it is estimated that over 2 billion people worldwide don’t have access to sufficient food, over 25% of the world’s population. According to the USDA, food insecurity affects nearly 17.4 million U.S. households at some time during the year.
According to FeedingAmerica.org, approximately 18% of people in Tompkins and Cortland counties were affected by food insecurity in 2017.
There are a number of local organizations and businesses that work to combat the issue, and every additional support helps the cause.
Host and attend workshops focused on food waste and its effect on food insecurity. Discover how to effectively provide free or low cost meal incentives.
Kids experience food insecurity at a higher rate than the general population.
One-in-five children in Tompkins county are at risk for food insecurity. 40% qualify for free or reduced lunch – a 5% rise in the past five years, and about equal to the national average. However, the numbers vary across districts: 50% of Newfield students qualify, compared with only 23% in Lansing.
– Natasha Thompson, President and CEO of the Food Bank of the Southern Tier
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