“State of Hunger” 2015 Report Release
Contact: Sophia Lenarz-Coy slenarzcoy@hungersolutions.org
HUNGRY FOR CHANGE: HUNGER SOLUTIONS MINNESOTA RELEASES “STATE OF HUNGER” REPORT
Despite economic improvements, the need for hunger-related help – particularly for seniors and families – remains acute throughout the state
ST. PAUL, Minn. (June 16, 2015)— At a time when many Minnesotans are enjoying picnics and backyard cookouts, thousands of families statewide are struggling to put food on the table. A new report from Hunger Solutions Minnesota, a statewide hunger relief group, highlights the need for more resources, even as the state’s overall economy continues to improve. The State of Hunger in Minnesota report details how food insecurity impacts thousands of Minnesotans. “Access to nutritious food is the most fundamental element that contributes to the success of healthy communities.” said Colleen Moriarty, executive director of Hunger Solutions Minnesota. “Our report shows that an increasing number people rely on hunger relief efforts to ensure they can provide consistent, nutritious meals for their families.” The report highlights a continuing need for emergency food services in Minnesota. While unemployment has stabilized, more than 9,000 people per day still rely on the state’s food shelves. Families with children accounted for more than 1.3 million Minnesota food shelf visits in 2014. Visits by seniors increased 13% over 2013. The report also explains new and high impact hunger relief solutions the organization has created to address the nutrition needs of low income Minnesotans. This includes newly passed policies in the 2015 legislative session that address hunger, these include universal free school breakfast for students K—3rd grade, $2 million grant program for expansion of Mobile Food Shelves, and $650,000 to support Healthy Eating Here at Home, a farmers market SNAP incentive program. Because June is a very busy month for emergency food services, Treasure Island Resort and Casino has stepped in to help address child hunger. All donations made to Hunger Solutions Minnesota in June will be matched up to $10,000. “Too many families struggle to provide food for their children, especially during the summer months. It doesn’t have to be that way. Treasure Island Resort & Casino and the Prairie Island Indian Community want to help make a difference by providing a $10,000 matching grant to our friends at Hunger Solutions Minnesota,” said Bryan Prettyman, director of marketing of Treasure Island Resort and Casino. “This grant will double all the donations that are made during June. Every dollar makes a difference in the fight to end childhood hunger here in our backyard.” Read the full State of Hunger in Minnesota report and learn how to take action to fight hunger at www.hungersolutions.org.