WXYZ DETROIT — Hunger in America is on the increase and that includes the State of Michigan. The Coronavirus pandemic has many families struggling to make ends meet. September is Hunger Action Month, a good time to stand up and take action!
This year alone, it is estimated that 54 million people are food insecure. Eighteen million are children. Food banks report that 4 out of every 10 people visiting their facilities are a direct result of COVID-19. For many, it is their first time in their life facing hunger. And a lot of people who used to donate to food banks now need a helping hand themselves. Some work part-time and full-time jobs but are underemployed and can’t meet their basic needs. Many others have been laid off because of the economic impact of the virus.
But as a caring community, there are ways we can all pitch in to help. You can volunteer your service to a local food bank or donate to your favorite charity organization. You can visit local restaurants and breweries that are supporting hunger relief. The physical, mental and emotional toll of huger can be devastating to a person or family.
We commend the frontline workers who help those who need assistance, every day. They are unsung heroes who all too often face the greatest of odds. We’ve posted alist of some of the best known hunger relief community organizations on wxyz.com.
This month, you will probably see people and places displaying the color orange. It’s a symbolic reminder of the fight to make sure people don’t go to bed hungry at night. Together, we can make a difference in the quality of life for our neighbors, our city and our state!
I’m Mike Murri, V.P. & General Manager
Broadcast: September 10 - 13, 2020
