As the number of individuals and households seeking food assistance continues to rise, the importance of the local, charitable response is more critical than ever. But in order to adequately meet the demand food assistance, and those of our growing food pantry network, we need your help.

In 2014, the Stark County Hunger Task Force pantry network provided critical and compassionate food assistance to over 27,300 individuals each month, and during 2017, that number increased to over 29,000 hungry men, women, and children every month. The number of Stark County’s hungry continues to rise; in fact, over the past four years alone, we have seen an 80% increase in clientele at our network pantries, and the number of Stark County’s food-insecure population has similarly increased despite an improved unemployment rate.

For those in this community who are hungry and unsure of what to do, Stark County Hunger Task Force’s pantry network is a lifeline in their time of crisis. Whether that crisis is temporary or extended, they turn to our food pantries and programs for a basic need that is deceptively simple: a free, 3-5 day food supply to help carry them through.

HUNGER LIVES HERE. — hunger means hard choices and catch twenty-twos; choosing between food and other basic needs like utilities, housing, and medical care, not to mention some things such as transportation and an education. For those whose lives don’t depend on routinely performing such a financial juggling act, it can be difficult to imagine those choices.

Meet Merrica

When Merrica suffered a serious shoulder injury and could no longer work things changed for the
worse. She was once self-employed and the sole provider for her household until her disabling injury.
With no job, and little to no support Merrica lost her home and hunger became one more
worry to add to her growing list of troubles. Her case manager introduced her to Stark County
Hunger Task Force shortly after to get the help she needed.
Merrica now visits the food pantry once a month. She picks out bags of healthy fruits and veggies
and household staples. With fresh food at home, hunger is now less of a worry.

There are many stories like Merrica’s across our community. You can give your friends and neighbors hope this Spring by donating today.

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