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Does Poverty Fuel Hunger?

Juana, a woman facing the struggles of poverty, stands in front of a car at a food distribution with trees in the background on a sunny day.
Juana shares her story of resilience and gratitude for the support she receives from her local food pantry.

Poverty is the driving force behind food insecurity.

Poverty touches every part of a person’s life. It leaves families in a daily battle to choose between survival and stability.  

Juana knows this battle all too well. Affording insulin for her mother never leaves enough money for the wholesome foods a diabetic’s diet requires.   

That leaves Juana’s family often picking between paying for insulin or healthy food. Each choice Juana makes tightens the grip of poverty.  

 That is why January is Poverty Awareness Month.   

Poverty manifests in countless harmful ways. Yet, food insecurity is one of the most urgent consequences.  

At Second Harvest, we see firsthand the challenges our neighbors face. We see how poverty drives food insecurity, and how food insecurity drives poverty.   

Claudie, who works for Second Harvest Partner Agency Catholic Charities, knows this. She says, “Food is the most important thing in anybody’s life.”  

Claudie, who knows how poverty can impact a person's life, smiles in a floral blouse. She sits outside by a colorful mural in front of a Second Harvest Partner Agency, Catholic Charities.
Claudie’s vibrant energy and optimism shine as she discusses her role in supporting neighbors through Second Harvest’s Partner Agency programs.

We also see the incredible difference acts of kindness can make. Volunteering, donating, and spreading awareness provides food today and hope for tomorrow.  

This is a time to do more than shed light on the struggles faced by millions of Americans. We must move towards a brighter future for everyone.  

Together, we can create a community without food insecurity. A community without poverty. Let’s make a difference.  

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