Did you know September is Hunger Action Month? Throughout the month, people all over America stand together with Feeding America, our regional affiliate MANNA Foodbank of Asheville, Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry, and the nationwide network of food banks to fight hunger. We typically use this month to raise awareness of the plight of one in eight Americans struggling with hunger, but this year, we need to stop and think about our neighbors in south Texas.

They need our help. While it is satisfying to fill a truck with food and water and drive it to Houston, our dollars can go even further through a donation to Feeding America. With their leveraged buying power, Feeding America can turn a $1 donation into $9 worth of food and water. They have already been on the ground in the region, staging food and supplies – so they have a trusted network to efficiently distribute supplies. Visit http://www.feedingamerica.org today to learn more about how you can help and about the lasting impact of hunger on those less fortunate.

Locally, this is your opportunity to join a movement that has a real and lasting impact on our effort to feed more Polk County residents in need than ever before. Outreach is asking local families to step up during Hunger Action Month to volunteer in the pantry or make donations of food (please no glass jars). Your contribution can be dropped off Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. – noon at 134 White Drive in Columbus.

Finally, our third annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser sponsored by HomeTrust Bank, Artistry Above, and Wilderness Cove Campground will be held Saturday, Sept. 30 from 4 – 7 p.m. at the Parker-Binns Vineyard Barn. Come visit with fellow humanitarians, learn about Outreach, and enjoy soups from Huckleberrys, Larkins, Lavender Bistro, McGourtys, Purple Onion, Southside Smokehouse, and bread from Standing Stone!

One hundred percent of the proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to purchase food for local individuals and families struggling with hunger. To purchase tickets for Empty Bowls, please visit www.tboutreach.org.