Does Maine have a hunger problem?
Heart-wrenching hunger facts:
- According to the USDA, Maine ranks 18th in the nation and #1 in New England in terms of child food insecurity.
- Food insecurity has increased by 50% over the past decade.
- Over 25% of children in our local communities are eligible for free or reduced lunches and possibly go home hungry on weekends. In fact, as much as 35% of students in one of our own schools are eligible for free or reduced lunches.
How is hunger affecting our own community?
Here is some food for thought:
Can you imagine what hunger; true excessive hunger can do to an adult let alone a child? Not only are there the physical symptoms of hunger such as depression and difficulty sleeping, but also the behavioral and educational symptoms as well.
More importantly, can you imagine the greater healthy impact upon our children if not one child went home hungry or came to school hungry Monday morning? Think of the improvements in behavior, attention span, peer relationships and learning in school. Now, imagine the positive impact those children can also have in our communities.
What can we do about the problem of hunger in our community?
Answer: Community Outreach Services!
Our various programs are targeted to meeting the needs of people in any sort of challenging situation. Read more about each of them below.