A Hunger-Relief Holiday Give Guide
by Brittany Banks, Communication Manager, © Feeding America
For many of us, the holidays truly are a special time of year. While we of course associate the season with Rudolf’s red nose, reconnecting with old friends and pecan pie, like many of my peers, it’s also a time when I’m more aware than ever of the blessings in my life.
Maybe it’s the frigid Chicago temperatures forcing me to slow down and stay indoors or the unavoidable reset that a new year brings, this time of year always prompts me to become more aware of the privileges I have been able to experience. And in turn, it brings me to consider those who have been less fortunate.
While growing up, community service and the philanthropic ideal were ever-present in my household, but as a 20-something urbanite, it can be daunting to know if the little that I can contribute really makes any impact. Fortunately, through relationships with national partners and economies of scale, the realities of the numbers prove that there is a place for everyone who wants to give back – and there are often creative ways to contribute.
Today there are 49 million Americans who struggle with food insecurity. That’s 1 in 6 people who don’t always know where their next meal is coming from. While we may not all be able to individually provide three meals a day for these neighbors and community members, Feeding America works hard to create partnerships with companies that make it easier for anyone to join the fight to solve hunger.
Especially around the holidays, these partnerships often provide ways to incorporate supporting hunger relief into already established routines. Below is a sample of Feeding America holiday partnerships that make it simple for those who may not be able to spare a lot, to still be able to contribute and make a real difference for our neighbors in need this holiday season.
Cheeky Home. Cheeky offers a brand-new line of tableware, and with every purchase of a specially-marked Cheeky item from Target, Cheeky will donate one meal to Feeding America.
Food Lion. Food Lion has made it easy to support hunger relief and created specially-marked ‘Holidays Without Hunger’ food boxes pre-filled with products to be distributed to local food banks for those in need. You can also make a donation at check-out.
Kiehl’s Since 1851. Kiehl’s is collaborating with artist Norman Rockwell and offering a Crème de Corps Holiday Collection, which 100% of net profits from sales will be donated to Feeding America.
The Pampered Chef. The Pampered Chef and has created the Round-Up from the Heart® 2014 Soup Bowl. For each bowl purchased, the company will donate $2, or the equivalent of 18 meals, to Feeding America. You can also round-up your order to benefit your local food bank.
Quick Lane & Ford Motor Company. They’re teaming up with Feeding America for a text to donate and online donation campaign, where you can help provide meals to support those in need.
This time of year can often bring out the best in people, but can also be a difficult time for others. It’s not only major philanthropists who can make a difference. Looking for small ways to support organizations and companies working to help those in need can provide anyone with the ability to give and make a difference in the fight against hunger.
