Hunger In Our Area

1 in 7 people in our area struggle with hunger.

Hunger can affect people from all walks of life. Many members of our community are one job loss or medical crisis away from food insecurity – but some people, including children and seniors, are at greater risk of hunger than others. Golden Harvest works to increase access to nutritious food and foster long-term stability for our neighbors who struggle.

Children

While food insecurity is harmful to everyone, it is particularly devastating to children. One in four children in our area struggle to get enough to eat.  Without access to food outside of school, nutrition takes a backseat to hunger.

Seniors

Seniors face a number of unique medical and mobility challenges that put them at a greater risk of hunger. The seniors we serve are often faced with the difficult choice between paying for medical care and getting enough to eat.

Rural Families

For rural families in need, access to nutritious food is a constant challenge. Our service area covers rural counties, large portions of which are designated as food deserts where grocery stores are scarce.

Homeless Population

Much like hunger, experiencing homelessness is a symptom of a larger system of poverty in our community. Many of our low-income neighbors are just one job loss or medical emergency away from losing the roof above their heads.

Single Parent Families

Providing for your family as a single parent is a challenge. Many single parents struggle to balance providing nutritious food with other necessary expenses like rent, transportation, utilities, and education or childcare for their children.

College Students

Enrollment in a college or university is associated with financial security and a bright future. However, recent studies show that many college students experience food insecurity as they balance paying for education with getting enough to eat.

Hunger and Health

Eating healthy is costly, and for low-income families it’s often a luxury they can’t afford. Most rely on cheap, unhealthy foods to make ends meet, leading to increased health issues and an even greater financial burden.

Our vision is to help families in need break the cycle of poverty by increasing their access to nutritious food. Because it’s about more than just providing food for today. It’s about providing food for a brighter tomorrow.

67%

of clients report being unable to afford healthy, balanced meals

42%

of clients report experiencing poor physical health at least 10 days out of the past month

30%

of clients report experiencing poor mental health at least 10 days out of the past month

73%

of clients report running out of food and being unable to afford more

Statistics are based on results from a survey of 300 clients at 35 partner food pantries.

Hurricane Helene Response

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our community faced unprecedented challenges. Homes were damaged, power outages disrupted daily life, and many families found themselves without access to basic necessities. Here’s how you helped Golden Harvest Food Bank and our partners swiftly mobilize to provide essential relief.

Hurricane Helene Impact Report

Make An Impact

Together we make a tangible and lasting impact for children, families and seniors who are struggling in our region. Your support today will fill more plates with food–and hearts with hope.

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