VERONA, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank is joining Feeding America to mark September as Hunger Action Month, which is a nationwide campaign highlight the urgent need to end hunger and the power of food to nourish more than just the body.

“The need for food assistance is higher than ever, affecting families, seniors, and working people across the Blue Ridge,” said Kari Diener, CEO of the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. “Our vision is simple: nourishing food and good health for everyone, every day.”

Over the past year, the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and its network of nearly 400 partner pantries and program sites distributed more than 27 million meals (32 million pounds of food), serving an average of 171,200 people each month. The Food Bank is calling on the community to help sustain this mission:

Officials say the best way to take action are:

  • Donate: Every $1 provides 3 meals for neighbors.
  • Volunteer: Join the team serving 171,200 people each month.
  • Advocate: Speak up for strong hunger-relief policies, including the next Farm Bill.
  • Raise Awareness: Share stories, wear orange on Sept. 9, and spark conversations.

“Every action matters — whether it’s giving, volunteering, or raising your voice,” Diener said. “Together, we strengthen our community and prove that no effort is too small to help end hunger.”

According to Feeding America, food insecurity across the U.S. has reached its highest rate in over a decade, with more than 47 million people facing hunger, including 14 million children.  In the Blue Ridge region, that translates to 1 in 9 people.

Learn more at https://www.brafb.org/event/hunger-action-month/