Feeding America

Feeding America is the the leading domestic hunger-relief charity. By the use of food banks and a network of member across the country, their mission is to engage our country in the fight to end hunger. The Feeding America network gives aid to more than 37 million low-income victims of hunger in the United States. More than 200 food banks serve all 50 states, along with the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, distributing more then 2.5 billion pounds of food and grocery products yearly.

Here are some facts about hunger in the US based on Feeding America's "Hunger Report 2010":

• Of 37 million served annually, 14 million are children and 3 million seniors
• 1 in 8 people in the US now rely on Feeding America for food and groceries
• Food banks feed 1 million more people per week than in 2006
• 36% of houses served have at least one person working
• More than 1/3 of client households have to choose between food or basic necessities (rent, utilities, health care)
• Number of children aided by Feeding America increased by 50% since 2006.

More information can be found at Feeding America; Hunger Report 2010

Taking Matters Into Their Own Hands

Some athletes and sports executives are much more proactive about helping out their community. Here are some cases in which professional sports help in the fight against hunger:

•  The Atlanta Falcons (NFL) partnered with Publix, a Florida based grocery store spread all over the south, and the Atlanta Community Food Bank held their annual "FalCan Food Drive." This drive benefited the Atlanta Community Food Bank, and cans were also collected prior to a Falcon's home game on November 7. Monetary donations were also accepted.
• On November 22, 2010 the New York Jets (NFL) teamed up with Homeless Solutions and provided a Thanksgiving style meal to 50 children and 30 adults inside their indoor training facility.Tony Richardson, a Jets Player spoke of this event, “For me personally to have this opportunity to help other people that are in need, despite what you have going on, that’s the most important thing to me.”
• A3 Hunger (Athletes and Artists Against Hunger) seeks to end hunger with the help of professional athletes and artists. Athletes and Artists from past and present are asked to donate various memorabilia items.They will be auctioned off with, all proceeds going towards charities at the national and local level to fight hunger.