As more and more individuals battle against poverty, those charitable organizations giving out food to the hungry are working increasingly harder. In addition, their operations are expanding to deal with this demand. For example, looking at statistics from Joseph’s Storehouse, when it first opened three years ago, it helped just over 10 people; now it gives out around 25,000 food parcels every year.
Increased Poverty: Why?
So why has there been so much increased poverty over the years? There has been a huge increase in the price of food (as well as fuel). As well, the economic situation globally has caused a lot of job losses and all of these factors have pushed people to poverty levels.
So what is being done to help these individuals? There is one organization, FareShare which distributes excess food that would have been trashed. As such, in Leicestershire, over the last quarter alone, it delivered 120 tons of produce throughout the area.
More Tasks for Food Charities
But the work of Joseph’s Storehouse does not stop here. And thankfully, it has been recognized and appreciated for its huge efforts. Just last month, the organization provided food for free to anyone who could prove their income and address in Lebanon, TN. Most of the food is given out on the last weekend, monthly. Every family is assessed for eligibility based on employment, health, emergency and other such issues. Those with extenuating circumstances (such as disabilities etc.) receive additional assistance. The organization is always looking for volunteers and the next monthly food giveaway is set for February 23rd and 25th.
How To Help
Organizations and individuals can always find ways to offer help. For example, members of ULSTER Farmers’ Union can send excess produce to needy communities through the FareShare Island of Ireland Community Food Network. FareShare does a lot in this regard. Not only does it ensure that substantial amounts of food that would otherwise go to waste do not, it also provides immense support to those who would otherwise go hungry. It is able to achieve its goals of helping the poverty-stricken through the support it receives from the Public Health Agency, FSA NI and DOE.