D.C. Hunger Solutions: Working Hard to Fight Hunger

Think of eight people you know. Not that hard right?

Now imagine one out of those eight struggling with hunger--that's a thought that is much more difficult to face.

However, nearly 1 out of 8 households struggle with hunger, with uncertain or limited access to, or ability to buy, healthy and nutritious food in DC.

Founded by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC)in 2002 to improve food security in DC, D.C. Hunger Solutions strives to "improve the nutrition, health, economic security, and well-being of low-income District residents."

Specifically, D.C. Hunger Solutions works to:

• Improve public policies to end hunger, reduce poverty, promote nutrition, curb obesity, and increase the availability of healthy, affordable food in low-income areas
• Maximize participation in all federal nutrition programs (SNAP/Food Stamps, school meals, early childhood nutrition programs, WIC, and summer meals)
• Educate the public about both the stark reality of hunger's existence in the midst of plenty and the real opportunities for effective solutions

During the summer, a focus of D.C. Hunger Solutions is the DC Free Summer Meals Program, a federal nutrition program administered locally by the Office of the State Superintendent of Education. This FABULOUS and FREE program serves all children ages 18 and younger and provides them with free food during the summer months. Children and teens can just show up at a site (i.e. DPR centers, libraries, DC Public Schools, charter schools, and houses of worship) during meal time to receive a FREE meal. Breakfast and lunch are the most common meals served although dinner is served at some sites.

Although the full time staff at D.C. Hunger Solutions may be small (currently six individuals, including three Americorps VISTAs), they can obviously accomplish a lot! To find out more, visit the D.C. Hunger Solutions website.