ABOUT HUNGER
No one can reach their full potential when they’re hungry.
And hunger is more common than many think. In every community, in every classroom.
Who Is The Face of Hunger?
Too many of our neighbors are one flat tire or medical bill away from an empty fridge. Parents skip meals so their kids can eat; seniors choose medications over food. Others work full-time yet can’t stretch their paycheck to cover all their household expenses, or qualify for food assistance benefits. The face of hunger looks like all of us.
1 IN 6 NEIGHBORS
In Minnesota experienced food insecurity in 2021. That's 483,000 people.
1 IN 7 KIDS
Didn't have regular access to the nutrition needed to thrive.
29% of black households
In Minnesota experienced food insecurity compared to 7% of White households.
SENIORS
Are the fastest-growing group of food pantry visitors.
Over 44 million people
Across the U.S. were food insecure in 2022.
ALL 50 STATES
Are home to people facing hunger.
What Is Food Insecurity?
What Causes Hunger?
There is no single root cause of hunger. For many, it’s ongoing and persistent. Their household incomes simply aren’t enough to cover the grocery bills and other expenses, especially with inflation and skyrocketing food prices.
For others, it’s a new experience, brought on by the pandemic, economic disruptions or an unexpected bill or emergency.
Whatever the reason, hunger remains a persistent (yet solvable) problem across the heartland. We believe there is more than enough food for everyone when we all come together.
40%
An estimated 40% of people experiencing hunger are not eligible for federal federal food assistance benefits, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
$22.12
Those facing hunger report needing an average of $22.12 more per week to meet their food needs.
The Racial Hunger Divide
Working to Bridge
Racial disparities create what we call “the hunger divide," the unjust reality that communities of color often face rates of food insecurity far greater than those of White Minnesotans.
Food Supports Report
Our Latest Research
Our latest research shows the reach of hunger right here in the heartland, as well as who received food and support from our region’s network of hunger-relief organizations. Conducting robust research like this helps us better understand today's hunger so we can better work to end it.
And Making It Easier To Get Help
Working Together to Increase Food Stability
Food banks like Second Harvest Heartland, along with our network of local food shelves and hunger relief partners, provide an essential lifeline for neighbors facing hunger. But not without partners and supporters. Learn more and join us.