Dear Friends:

What if all you could think about was how hungry you are? This morning, while you are pouring your organic granola, listen carefully to the clinking as it hits the bottom of your empty bowl. For many in our area, that sound echoes deeper than you and I may realize. For the more than 23,000 households served by Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeast North Carolina each month, the sound of food filling a dish is hope for a better day.

One of our strategic focuses at CCAP is addressing food insecurity, hunger, in the communities we serve.  The projects of Second Harvest Food Bank of Southeast North Carolina reflect some of the multiple ways we work to address hunger.

 Fortunately there are many, many people who care about workers who are temporarily down on their luck.  And I should emphasize that the data shows that folks who need this help do recover and move forward in life. I've seen it many times myself-and in all likelihood you have as well.  In fact, a study a few years back by the Urban Institute in DC found that approximately 50 percent of individuals who find themselves in a poverty situation get out of poverty a year later; and 75 percent experience poverty spells of less than four years.

More is needed for the families we serve and those affected by recent political, social and economic changes; and more is exactly what we intend to do. It has long been said that it takes a village to raise a child. What we know is that it takes a village to create real, meaningful change. Community Action changes people's lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.

To change this village, we need your help. Join us in this fight against hunger.

We encourage each member of this community to help however they can. Volunteer. Advocate. Donate. Or simply become more educated on the issue of hunger in our community by viewing our documentary available at hungercantwait.org. And let us know what you think and how you can help.