We have bounced from crisis to crisis in recent years: Covid, runaway inflation, surging costs for essentials such as food, gas and rent, Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Idalia … Times have been tough for those who were already struggling, while new households have been forced into poverty.

For most of us, the approach of the holidays promises time off from work to enjoy gatherings with friends and loved ones, and delicious meals featuring our holiday favorites. But for our neighbors who are food insecure, there is the likelihood that they will be facing empty plates.

For many years, All Faiths Food Bank has worked to ensure that EVERYONE can feel the joy of the season, distributing thousands of turkeys in advance of Thanksgiving and providing millions of holiday meals to those in need. Gifts to the ThankFULL campaign support these efforts to bring delicious food and joy to households where they may, otherwise, be in short supply.

Here are five things you should know about hunger as the holiday season approaches this year:

1. Hunger doesn’t take a break during the holidays.

When money is tight, tough choices must be made. We hear all the time from those we serve that they are having to choose between buying groceries or paying rent, refilling needed prescriptions, paying utility bills, or fixing their car.

For those who are struggling, the holidays bring the added pressure – and expense – of preparing seasonal meals and participating in gift exchanges. Imagine how disheartening it must be to feel left out of the celebrations you can see others enjoying immensely.

2. Hunger affects millions across the country … and many right next door.

According to Feeding America, 34 million people in the United States are food insecure, including 9 million children. There were 49 million people who turned to food programs in 2022. And 100% of U.S. counties have food insecurity.

Closer to home, you may be shocked to know that nearly 50% of the kids in Sarasota County schools rely on the free and reduced meal program. Thousands of area families are worried about empty refrigerators and barren cupboards. Parents are skipping meals so their children can eat.

3. Hunger is a health issue all year long.

All Faiths has recently reinvented itself to establish the infrastructure and processes that incorporate community health principles. The organization has established partnerships with our region’s leading healthcare organizations and nonprofit partners to screen more than 66,000 people for food insecurity, offer nutrition assistance, and refer families for additional social services.

All Faiths is also dedicated to raising awareness and engaging an even broader community to influence policy-making regarding hunger. The organization’s new strategic plan emphasizes a deeper investment in non-traditional food bank partnerships to create a region-wide movement that recognizes the role everyone can play to end hunger. 

4. All Faiths Food Bank has worked for decades to provide food for our neighbors in need during the holidays.

Since its founding in 1990, All Faiths Food Bank has provided food during the holidays, steadily expanding its efforts through the ThankFULL campaign for the past 18 years. This is possible thanks to individual and corporate gifts as well as ongoing support from area foundations.

This year, the organization’s goal is to distribute more than 13,000 turkeys and sides, and a total of 3.6 million holiday meals, through its own distributions as well as through its network of nearly 200 partner agencies. But we can’t do it without you …

5. Together, we can make a difference for our neighbors who are facing hunger. 

With a gift to All Faiths Food Bank’s ThankFULL campaign, you will make it possible for your neighbors to enjoy a festive holiday celebration complete with a healthy, delicious meal. You can also host a virtual fundraiser as well as encourage your family, coworkers, friends and neighbors to share the joy of helping others.

Visit allfaithsfoodbank.org to learn how you can help All Faiths Food Bank turn empty plates into ThankFULL tummies and hearts this holiday season.