The fact: 1 out of 6 Americans face food insecurity.

While America’s agrarian history and current status as first world nation have dubbed this country the land of plenty, many Americans are forced to deal with hunger because they are unable to make ends meet. This means that these Americans may go without food for several meals or even several days. And contrary to what many people assume, many of those who struggle with food insecurity have a job and do not live on the streets. It exists in the cities, the suburbs, and rural America and affects people of all ages—children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. “Anyone can experience hunger,” explains Feeding America.  “It is a silent epidemic that affects 49 million Americans.”

Here’s where the organized nation-wide network of food banks comes in. As the number one domestic hunger-relief charity in the nation, Feeding America has made it its mission to end hunger in the US with the help of fellow Americans. Through programs and services that focus on child hunger, disaster relief, self-sufficiency, and healthy foods, Feeding America relies on local and national assistance to feed those in need. The nation-wide network also works to raise awareness about the growing issue of food insecurity and supports public policies that will help solve the hunger crisis.

This network, however, needs help from Americans to relieve the nation of hunger. There are a number of opportunities for getting involved, including volunteering, advocating, and donating. For more information on what you can do to help, visit the website: http://feedingamerica.org/