The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched the 2023 summer campaign of the Feds Feed Families program, aiming to tackle hunger and enhance access to healthy food through voluntary contributions. Under the theme "Fighting Hunger - Giving Hope," federal employees are encouraged to make in-kind donations, including food, services, and time, to food banks and pantries of their choice.
Acting Deputy Secretary Kevin Shea emphasized the importance of addressing food and nutrition insecurity, highlighting USDA's existing nutrition assistance programs such as SNAP, WIC, and school meal initiatives. The Feds Feed Families campaign serves as a complementary effort, empowering federal employees to support local food systems and supplement government programs.
Since its inception in 2009, the Feds Feed Families program has made a significant impact by raising millions of pounds of food and in-kind donations for food systems nationwide. Now in its 14th year, the campaign aims to donate nearly 100 million pounds of food, focusing on meeting the increased demand during summer break when families face limited access to school meal programs.
The initiative has garnered support from organizations like So Others Might Eat (SOME), which has witnessed the transformative effects of food donations in their community. Additionally, the founder of AmpleHarvest.org, Gary Oppenheimer, highlighted the importance of gardeners' contributions and the innovative approach of connecting them directly with local food pantries. By redirecting surplus food to those in need, this initiative promotes food waste reduction and enhances access to fresh, nutritious options.
The USDA, in collaboration with federal employees and initiatives like AmpleHarvest.org, aims to combat hunger, strengthen food access, and foster innovation in food donations. Through the Feds Feed Families campaign, they are working towards a future where no one goes hungry, and communities thrive with hope and nourishment.
Source : wisconsinagconnection