This September, dairy farmers and communities across the United States are demonstrating their commitment to fighting hunger during Hunger Action Month. The USDA estimates that more than 34 million Americans, including 9 million children, are food insecure¹. Feeding America partners with food banks across the nation to help provide nutritious food to those who need it most.  

Food insecurity is defined as a lack of consistent access to enough food for each individual in the household to live an active, healthy life. The causes of food insecurity are complex and include issues such as lack of affordable housing, lack of access to healthcare, low wages, unemployment and poverty, to name a few.   

Dairy farmers across the country are working with Feeding America to supply School and Summer Meal Programs that include highly nutritious products, such as milk and cheese, in an effort to ensure food is available for children, teens and families.  

Research shows us that children and teens receiving free or reduced-price school lunches or summer meals reduces food insecurity, can lower obesity rates and other poor health outcomes, and support a child’s ability to learn and grow².  

You can learn more about Hunger Action Month by visiting feedingamerica.org. Additionally, you can learn more about what is happening at a local level in Oregon by visiting the Oregon Food Bank.