Harry Chapin Food Bank, the largest hunger relief organization serving Southwest Florida, has received proclamations from the Boards of County Commissioners in Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties declaring September as Hunger Action Month. These proclamations support Harry Chapin Food Bank’s efforts to increase public awareness about food insecurity in Southwest Florida.

“At Harry Chapin Food Bank, we work tirelessly to ensure children, families and seniors throughout our five-county footprint have reliable access to healthy food,” said Richard LeBer, president and CEO of Harry Chapin Food Bank. “We are steadfastly committed to ending hunger in Southwest Florida, and this proclamation will go a long way in highlighting the significant and urgent need for fresh, affordable and nutritious food for our neighbors.”

The food bank was recognized for its efforts to end hunger at the Collier and Glades Boards of County Commissioners on Sept. 10, and by the Lee and Hendry Boards of County Commissioners on Sept. 17 and Sept. 23, respectively. The Charlotte Board of County Commissioners previously recognized Harry Chapin Food Bank in July.

Established in 2008 by Feeding America, Hunger Action Month takes place each September to raise awareness about hunger in America and inspire action. This annual recognition sheds light on the more than 44 million people, including 13 million children, who are food insecure in the United States.

Food insecurity, defined as the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle, is a foremost concern in Southwest Florida. Feeding America estimates more than 177,000 individuals, including 41,000 children, are impacted throughout Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties.

Harry Chapin Food Bank is leading the charge to combat food insecurity in Southwest Florida by feeding more than 250,000 individuals each month through an array of food distribution programs focused on children, families and seniors.

As part of Hunger Action Month, Harry Chapin Food Bank is encouraging Southwest Floridians to do their part to end hunger in their community. From hosting a food drive to volunteering at a packing event, Harry Chapin Food Bank offers community members a variety of ways to support their efforts. Additionally, a contribution of as little as $1 can provide food for two healthy meals.

To join Harry Chapin Food Bank in its fight to end hunger in Southwest Florida, visit harrychapinfoodbank.org.

About Harry Chapin Food Bankharrychapinfoodbank.org.