A Fresh Start: New Year’s Resolutions That Help Fight Hunger
The new year is here, and with it comes the opportunity to reflect and set new goals for the new year. For many of us, resolution in the new year is often a chance to improve ourselves, but what if we also use them to improve our communities?
This year, consider making a resolution to help fight hunger in your community. With over 132,240 people facing food insecurity in Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore alone, your efforts can make a tangible difference for your neighbors.
This guide will walk you through meaningful ways to fight hunger that you can take to contribute to reducing food insecurity in our area with the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore.
Commit to Hosting a Food Drive
Why It Matters
Food drives combine the power of collective effort and generosity to provide critical help to families in need. Food drives ensure shelves at the Foodbank are continuously stocked, allowing healthy food to be distributed to underserved communities efficiently.
Host a Food Drive
- Choose a Location and Date: When hosting a food drive, choose a convenient, high-traffic location such as a school, library, or community center, and set a collection date and time.
- Partner with The Foodbank: The Foodbank offers guidance and resources to make your food drive a success.
- Spread the Word: Use flyers, create social media posts, and rely on the power of conversation to encourage food drive donations. Don’t forget to emphasize how participants can make a big difference with small contributions.
Make this resolution your own. Start planning to host a food drive with the Foodbank today.
Explore Ways to Fight Hunger in Your Community
Volunteer Your Time
One of the best ways to help fight hunger is by volunteering. From sorting donations at the Foodbank to helping with food distribution events, your time can bring immediate relief to those in need while creating stronger community bonds.
Spread Awareness
Education is a powerful tool. Use your social media platforms or local events to raise awareness about food insecurity in your community. Share stories, facts, and calls to action to encourage others to join the fight against hunger. Don’t forget to tag us on social media (@FoodbankSEVA)!
Remember, no effort is too small. Every post shared or hour volunteered builds momentum toward the ultimate goal of ending hunger.
Make a Resolution to Donate Online
The Convenience Factor
Can’t make it to a food drive? No problem! Donate food online in the form of a monetary donation to help fight hunger from wherever you are. The Foodbank makes it easy to contribute to our mission without leaving your couch.
How It Works
Visit our website to make a donation and choose your donation amount. Online donations help the Foodbank purchase high-demand items in bulk, as well as fresh meats and produce, ensuring healthy options are available for underserved communities.
Get Creative with Fundraising Efforts
Fundraising doesn’t have to mean just writing a check. Make it fun and engaging by organizing activities like virtual events, bake sales, or donation-matching challenges at your workplace or with a community group.
By hosting a creative fundraiser, you’re not just raising money but also spreading awareness and strengthening the collective fight against hunger in our communities.
Advocate for Hunger Relief Initiatives
Take Action Through Advocacy
Advocacy is a powerful way to create systemic change. Write to your local representatives, support hunger-relief policies, and participate in community forums to amplify the importance of equitable food access.
Consider Long-Term Support
Why Consistency Matters
While the holidays often bring a surge of generosity, hunger is a year-round challenge. Consistently supporting the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore is essential to ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals throughout the year.
How to Make It a Habit
- Set Recurring Donations: Make giving effortless by setting up a recurring donation through the Foodbank’s website.
- Commit to Volunteering: Schedule monthly or quarterly volunteer shifts to stay connected with your community and contribute regularly.
- Plan Seasonal Drives: Organize food drives ahead of key seasons and holidays to keep the Foodbank well-stocked and prepared.