To understand the issue of hunger is to understand the root causes of poverty and oppression. Cans Around the Oval merely scratches the surface of the scope of the global problem of hunger. Fighting hunger occurs on many levels; only with combining awareness and action opportunities, along with the grassroots action of Cans Around the Oval can we truly be effective in fighting hunger and poverty. Poverty is systemic, so here we have provided links and synopses of featured organizations working on each level of systemic change, local, national and international, in order to put the issue into perspective. As we are gathering together as a community to assist those of us in the most need, we ask that we stay cognisant of every aspect of this issue. Simply by staying aware we are making a difference in the fight against poverty and oppression on many levels.
Food Bank for Larimer County - working to fight hunger here in our own community.
Pathways Past Poverty - A collaboration of Larimer County entities, including Larimer County, CSU, the United Way, and many not-for-profits in the area. The goal of this project is to identify ways of combatting poverty by addressing its root causes right here at home; including hunger.
Feeding America - Formally America's Second Harvest, this organization provides food and advocacy to food banks nationwide. They are also the primary sponsors of Hunger Awareness month every October. Their site provides an incite into the scope of hunger on a national scale.
OxFam - The OxFam family has worked on a variety of issues surrounding poverty on an international scale. They work to address root causes of poverty, and also provide emergency relief when needed. OxFam provides many unique opportunities to learn and get involved.
UN Food Program - The United Nations does it's best to aid the fight against hunger. Check out their site to see what they are doing.
Action Center to End World Hunger - Another international NGO, the Mercy Corps stays true to its grassroots beginnings by working with local community members to establish their offices; keeping in mind the needs of local people where ever they go. They provide advocacy and education in the fight against hunger and poverty.
Seven Days for Seven Dollars - October 8-15, 2009 - The average American spends more than $10 a day on food. E-mail 7daysfor7dollars@gmail.com for information on how to register!
How many of us have ever experienced hunger beyond one or two missed meals? The fact is, most of us lack the frame of reference to know what "hunger" might be like, and subsequently have a hard time connecting with those experiencing food insecurity and working to help end global hunger. Seven Days for Seven Dollars was created to allow participants to get a glimpse of what living on less ($1 a day) food would look like, and from this experience gain a commitment to create change both in their lives and in the world at large. Individuals participate by purchasing worth of food the day before the event starts, and making this food last the entire week. Please check back with us on how to sign up.