Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland

Gas Prices likely to rise until spring 2012

2012-01-18T12:30:00.000-08:00

posted January 18, 2012

As the year kicks off, the corporate office of gas station companies are determining prices. Large jumps of 20 to 25 cents will be likely instead of a series of small, continuous increases.

Due to reduced inventories, rising wholesale prices, and political tension in the Strait of Hormuz, global markets are seeing increases in the price of gasoline. Approximately one-third of the oil sent to the United States passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Any rise in the cost of gas would impact the transportation costs associated with delivering food to supermarkets and hunger centers.

Read more here.

More Cleveland area residents are turning to the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland for support in difficult times

2012-01-18T08:28:00.001-08:00

The Plain Dealer Reports, “The [Hunger] Network casts a wider net these days”, distributing emergency food to 60,000 people throughout Cuyahoga County each month. Children make up almost half of the population served.

The article tells the story of Nisa Park-Bey who was employed as a manager, until two heart attacks left her disabled, as she simultaneously became legal guardian to her nieces. Park-Bey says of the Hunger Network “They help me in so many ways, they give me good, have gotten me a refrigerator and helped me get coats for the kids”.

Michelle Wohlfeiler, Director of special events and marketing coordinator for the Hunger Network described the population the network serves; “There are the chronically poor and people who are disabled, and seniors who can’t get by, but increasingly, we are seeing the unemployed and underpaid who need us for a shorter period, just to get through the difficult times”.

To read the entire article click here: http://www.cleveland.com/holidays/blog/index.ssf/2011/12/holiday_spirit_agencies_that_d.html

Holiday Giving Made Easy

2011-12-19T10:38:00.000-08:00

Here is a great and easy solution... make a holiday donation (Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanzaa, New Years or any holiday of your choice) to the Hunger Network in honor of your special person. We will acknowledge your gift by sending your honoree a special card telling them that you have given a holiday gift in their honor to help the Hunger Network feed hungry children and families during the holidays. Enclosed with this card will be a true story about one of our clients that will be helped with their gift.

All you need to do is go to our website, Hungernetwork.org and click on the donate button. Just remember to list the holiday this gift represents. Questions, call (216) 619-8155.

Cost Increase for Thanksgiving Dinner

2011-12-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), the cost of a Thanksgiving dinner will be more expensive this year. This year’s average cost for a meal feeding 10 people is $49.20, "which is $5.73 more than last year."

The AFBF has been conducting the Thanksgiving survey since 1986. Back then; the cost of a Thanksgiving meal for 10 people was $28.74. Despite the increase in prices, consumers are not cutting back on their feasting plans.

To save money, those planning a Thanksgiving feast can:

- Avoid going overboard with variety

- Use smaller portion sizes

- Make recipes simpler

The complete article is available here:
http://www.newsandsentinel.com/page/content.detail/id/554356/Price-survey--Thanksgiving-turkey-cost-up.html?nav=5061

Suburban poverty rates rising faster in our region, study finds

2011-11-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

posted November 4, 2011

The number of people living in extremely poor neighborhoods has grown faster in Northeast Ohio suburbs than elsewhere in the nation, poverty figures release Wednesday by the Brooking Institution show..... With an 8% point increase, Cleveland's suburbs claimed the nation's 4th highest rate of growth of the poor in poverty-stricken neighborhoods.

The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland has been serving the suburbs for over 30 years. Hunger centers are located in Cleveland Hts, Euclid, Shaker Hts, Bedford, Maple Hts, Parma, Lakewood, Berea, Bay Village and others. Similar to the figures released, the Hunger Network has seen an increase of 20-40% (depending on the area) over the last 10 years in the suburban hunger centers with some increases considerable higher in 2009-2011.

Read the full article from The Plain Dealer Here

Beef prices leading U.S. food price increases this holiday season

2011-10-31T08:27:00.000-07:00

Posted- October 31, 2011

Beef Prices in the United States will be leading the food price increases as the holidays get closer and closer according to the USDA's latest Consumer Price Index for Food. Meat prices in general are climbing faster than those of other food categories this year, averaging "8 to 9 percent higher" then in 2010. The latest Comsumer Price Index for Food from the USDA shows that food prices are going up by "3.5 to 4.5 percent, while meats, poultry and fish are up 5.5 to 6.5 percent."

The report says that commodity and energy prices are pushing wholesale and retail food prices upwards. As the planet's population increases, additional demand for food will drive prices up further. For the coming year, food prices will depend "on factors such as weather conditions, fuel prices and the value of the U.S. dollar."

Original article available here: http://www.cattlenetwork.com/cattle-news/latest/Beef-leads-food-price-increase-132738093.html

USDA/ERS CPI for Food Report: http://www.ers.usda.gov/Briefing/CPIFoodAndExpenditures/Data/CPIForecasts.htm

Cleveland ranked as the 3rd poorest city

2011-09-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

posted September 22, 2011

A new census report came out today. The American Community Survey shows Cleveland has a 34 percent poverty rate. Which means Cleveland is the 3rd poorest city with a population of 200,000 or more, behind Detroit and San Bernardino, CA.

See the full story here.

Report Finds More Children Living in Poverty

2011-08-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Posted- August 15, 2011

Between 2008 and 2009, child poverty increased nearly 10%, the largest increase since 1960 according to a new Children's Defense Fund report. In 2009, one in five children-a total of 15.5 million- lived in poverty. One in three black children lives in poverty, compared to one in ten white children. Black and Hispanic children are much more likely than white children to be overweight or obese. More than one in then households in 43 states do not have access to enough food; in 2009, a record 15.6 million children received SNAP/Food Stamps. An additional 1.2 million children received free or reduced-price school lunch since the recession began in late 2007. Children are suffering because of the "great recession," and poverty, hunger and homelessness threaten these children's potential to grow into successful adults.

Courtesy of FRAC (Food and Research Action Center)

Read article from The Plain Dealer Here.

Community Support

2011-07-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

Posted- July 7, 2011

Over the last few months the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland has continued to receive support through community fundraisers and events. The Hunger Network truly appreciates their support.

They've Done it Again... Bay Presbyterian Surpasses Goal!
At the May board meeting, Rev. Dan Edgerly presented a $43,200 check to Executive Director Dana Irribarren. For the last 15 years, Bay Presbyterian Church has raised money to purchase poultry for Hunger Network clients and puts forth a challenge to use to match their efforts. This remarkable congregation provides the centerpiece for thousands of Hunger Network client's holiday meal. Over the years Bay Presbyterian Church has single handedly raise well over half a million dollars to purchase the poultry which has been matched by the Hunger Network. The Hunger Network is extremely grateful to BPS for their continued support.

Shut Out Hunger- February 2011
Majestic Steel USA partnered with the Lake Erie Monsters to present Shut Out Hunger to benefit the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. During February Monster's home games, Majestic Steel volunteers collected non-perishable food from fans as the enter The Q. Over 1,500 food items were collected throughout the campaign. This second year effort was a huge success. The Hunger Network thanks Majestic Steel, Lake Erie Monsters and all who participated.

Young Association of Comedians make a debut at SHS- May 5, 2011

Some students enjoy throwing a football or playing an instrument, but Solon High School recently made a new activity available-- stand-up comedy. Students may participate by joining the Young Association of Comedians, also known as YAC.

"The opportunity finally presented itself to create the club at the beginning of this school year," said president, founder and senior, Zach Davidson.

"I've always been interested in stand-up comedy." Zach said. "I think there's so much great material in the high school, [such as] the cliques [and] awkward situations."

Using the material that they find at school, members can share their original jokes with the rest of the group and get feedback during meetings. They ultimately rehearsed their materials for a charity event at the end of the school year called 'Ha Ha's for Hunger.'

Their first event held on May 5, 2011, raised $1,000 for the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. Zach said, "we chose this organization because we realize the importance of helping those who are in need [and] because of the recent financial crisis, [the] city of Cleveland has been hit hard, and many are hurting and in need of a helping hand and a meal."

Feed the Children- June 14, 2011

On June 14th, the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland partnered with the international organization, Feed the Children, to distribute food and essentials to 400 pre-identified low-income families on the south east side of the city of Cleveland. Each family received a box of food, a box of personal items and a box of Avon products. The boxes are designed to help supplement a family of four for up to one week. This distribution is part of the Feed the Children's Americans Feed Americans Caravan program.

Legacy Village and V107.3FM

We thank Legacy Village and V107.3FM for their generous donation as part of the "A Cause to Decorate" fundraising event.

Empty Bowls

We thank Hathaway Brown Middle School for holding their annual Empty Bows fundraiser. Hathaway Brown families were invited for a light meal of soup and bread while listening to a program about the issues of hunger. $1052 was raised and donated to the Hunger Network.

Garden of Giving- Feed a Growing Need

2011-06-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

Posted- June 9, 2011
The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland has developed a prototype community garden project to provide-in season fresh vegetables for the 35 major food pantries within the Hunger Network System.

On Saturday, May 7th volunteers framed 6 deep bed garden plots at the Redeemer Crisis Center on West 30th St. The beds were planted by volunteers on Saturday, May 21, and will be maintained as a part of Redeemer's summer youth program.

Fundraising Tips 4.14.11

2011-04-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

Raising money for the Walk for Hunger is fun and easy to do! Here are a few tips. Set a fundraising goal. Make a goal chart and set it up at your school, office or church. It's all about networking! Social networking that is. Facebook and Twitter are great ways to let everybody know about your fundraising goals. Post a link to your team's personal fundraising page and encourage people to help you reach your goal! Take a break! Fundraising at work doesn't have to be another donut sale in the break room. Majestic Steel's team is organizing a "Soup"er Bowl Wii Tournament. A bracket-style tournament with 50% of the proceeds donated to the Walk for Hunger, and the other half goes to the best bowler of the bunch! Also, check to see if your company offers matching donations! Another way to raise money is to sell Hunger Network Apples. For only $1 your friends, family, and co-workers can show their support in the fight against hunger by purchasing a Hunger Network Apple. E-mail Michelle at the office, or give her a call at (216)619-8155 ext 18 to learn how to get Hunger Network Apples.

Price of Corn on the Rise (4/5/11)

2011-04-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

April 5, 2011

The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported last month that global demand for food has pushed "U.S. corn supplies to its lowest point in 15 years," doubling its price. The price of corn impacts many other food products in local supermarkets. Corn is used as feed for livestock, and can affect the price of beef, chicken, and pork. Since the life of a chicken is so short, chicken prices absorb price changes more quickly. It could take up to two years before consumers start paying more for animals with longer life spans, like hogs and cattle. Corn is also the primary ingredient in corn syrup, a popular sweetener, so products like Cap'n Crunch, Pepsi, and Coke will also be affected

Global demand for food, as well as supply chain issues are raising food prices across the board. Corn prices in Vietnam have risen 11 percent after plant protection authorities rejected 50,000 tons of Indian corn and soy meal that was found infected with insects. Industry officials detained the cargo from India. Bad weather in the United States Great Plains region have hurt winter wheat crops. Contracts for March delivery of wheat and corn both went up 3.7 percent each.

Save Emergency Food & Shelter Funding (3/8/11)

2011-03-08T11:41:00.000-08:00

Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland my lose up to 50% of funding through Emergency Food and Shelter.
Congress, with the support of the Administration is looking to curb spending in 2011 by cutting $100 million from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program. A budget cut of this magnitude (50%) weakens the EFSP and impacts communities nationwide. In lieu of our current fiscal environment, many programs cannot avoid some level of funding cuts. Effectuating a $50 million cut would reduce spending to $150 million (the equivalent of 2008's spending) and would align with overall spending reductions called for by the new House Republican majority to limit overall spending. You can help turn back the cuts by contacting your congressmen. Call the congressional switchboard at: 202-224-3121 or visit http://thomas.loc.gov

USDA and HHS Announce New Food Guidelines (2.24.11)

2011-02-24T09:24:00.000-08:00

February 24, 2011:

Congress requires that the Dietary Guidelines are updated every five years, promoting health and reduced risk of disease and obesity. These guidelines serve as the foundation for federal nutrition programs and educational efforts. The updates will effect what is served in school lunches as well as WIC food packages.

Nutrition improvement programs are now more important than ever, as 50 million Americans live in food insecure households. The new guidelines emphasize the need to improve the quality of American's diets. The new program also focuses on making sure that all Americans have access to healthy food choices and opportunities for physical activity.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans addresses the nation's obesity problem by encouraging Americans to balance calorie intake with physical activity. Increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, fat-free or low-fat dairy, whole grains, and lean protein is recommended to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

This edition is issuing a Call to Action to support individuals and families to meet the Dietary Guidelines. Making sure that everybody has access to healthy foods and physical activity is imperative. Several strategies are outlines in the report to achieve this goal such as, access to safe and affordable nutritious foods, promoting participation in the federal nutrition assistance programs to increase food security, and to expand access to grocery stores and other sources of healthy food.

Check out the 2010 Dietary Guidelines and the official statement from the FRAC

End of the month

2011-01-27T07:33:00.000-08:00

Posted 1/27/11

In November, $241.1 million in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funds were spent by over 1.7 million Ohioans. SNAP, more commonly known as food stamps, are funded by the federal government. Almost 75 percent of that amount was spent in the first half of the month and approximately 30 percent was spent in the first five days. According to September 2010 numbers from the Ohio Department of Job and Family services, the number of people on food assistance has increased 118 percent since 2002 and 55 percent since 2007.

With the increased number of Ohioans in dire need of food assistance, the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland could use your help in its efforts to feed the impoverished families in the area. Since much of the food stamp money is spent at the beginning of the month, many families need help in the last two weeks of the month.

Visit www.hungernetwork.org and help make a difference in your local community.

Simplify Your Holiday Gift List

2010-12-21T08:28:00.000-08:00

posted 12/21/10

Why not make a holiday donation (Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Years or any holiday of your choice) to the Hunger Network in honor of your special person? We will acknowledge your gift by sending your honoree a Happy Holiday card telling them that you have given a generous holiday gift in their honor to the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. The gift will feed hungry children and families during the holidays. Enclosed with each card will be a true story about one of our clients that will be helped with their gift. This is so easy. All you need to do is fill out and send in the donation envelope that is enclosed with this newsletter or go to our website hungernetwork.org and click on the donate button. Just remember to list the holiday this gift represents. Last year several people made gifts in honor of their entire families. Have gift ideas or questions, call Sandee Ralston, at 216.619.8155 ext.12. Please make gifts early so we can be sure to get them to you honoree in time for the holiday or special occasion.

State Budget Shortfalls in 2011

2010-11-16T08:45:00.000-08:00

posted 11/16/10

Forty-six state governments in the U.S. will face budget shortfalls in fiscal year 2011 totaling $125 billion. The decline in state revenues are the worst on record. Ohio’s $50 billion budget faces a shortfall of up to $8 billion. Unemployment remains high, pushing public services to the limit and compounding state budget problems. More and more working households using food stamps to make ends meet. Which in turns indicates that more families will depend on the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland.

Sources:
Working Households on the Rise – Share of Food Stamp households with children by type of income

Slide show: The State Budget Crisis and the Economy

Ohio Faces Budget Shortfall

99 Weeks: When Unemployment Benefits Run Out

2010-10-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

posted 10/25/10

On last night's 60 minutes (10/24/10)Scott Pelley reported on people referred to as the "99ers". "99ers" are those unemployed that have reached the end of their unemployment benefits. Even though this 60 minutes story focuses on San Jose, California near Silicon Valley, they could be talking about Cleveland, Ohio.

At Hunger Network hunger centers throughout the Cuyahoga County including locations Parma, Lakewood and Bedford, we see similar faces unemployment, people in their 40s, 50s and 60s who thought they had done everything right: earned a degree, stayed with their company, saved for retirement.

Read or view the 60 minutes piece here.

Help those in our area by donating at www.hungernetwork.org

Consumer Prices Rise

2010-10-18T07:47:00.000-07:00

Posted 10/18/10

With consumers holding back on spending due to high unemployment, rising debt levels, and an increase cost of living, the bad economic news casts a shadow over many Cleveland area families. Even though last month's increase of the Consumer Price Index was 0.1 percent according to the Department of Labor, Social Security recipients won't be getting a cost-of-living increase in their benefits for the second year in a row. Energy, meat, dairy, cereals and baked goods prices all rose in the last month. Corn futures are up to a two-year high as hog and cattle producers try to better manage their costs.

The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland is looking for donations, volunteers and/or contributions to help greater Cleveland's neediest people.

Sources:

CBS News

Bloomberg

Food Prices on the Rise

2010-10-05T06:52:00.000-07:00

posted 10/5/10

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), food prices are the highest in two years. The FAO says its food price index was up 5 percent between July and August. A drought in Russia combined with wheat export restrictions and higher sugar prices were cited as some causes of the rise in food prices. The U.N. said that it has called a special meeting to address food prices and supply.

Families in Northeast Ohio have been hit hard by global price spikes and need your help. Lend a hand by donating or volunteer now with the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. Visit www.hungernetwork.org for information.

Food Hardship

2010-08-30T08:08:00.000-07:00

posted 8/30/10

After-tax income for the working poor has only increased by 16% from 1979 to 2007. While the food hardship rate from 2008-2009 was well over 19.2% for Northeast Ohio.

Take a look at the Food Hardship report from FRAC and/or the research on income gaps.

The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland is counting on your support to help feed Greater Cleveland's families in need.

Child Nutrition Act

2010-08-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

posted 8/5/10

Every five years or so, Congress reviews and revises the Child Nutrition Act Through a process commonly known as Child Nutrition Reauthorization. This process sets rules and funding levels for the major school lunch and other food programs, including the school breakfast program and a special supplemental nutrition program for women, infants and children, known as WIC.

Rather than passing a new bill last year when the old one expired, Congress passed a one-year extension, which expires at the end of September.

Read more here and here

Foreclosure filings increase in Cuyahoga County during first half of the year

2010-07-19T08:44:00.001-07:00

posted 7/19/10

Read the full article from The Plain Dealer

New foreclosure fillings in Cuyahoga County rose more than 12 percent during the first six months of this year, with the suburbs continuing to feel the brunt of the increase.

Residential and commercial foreclosure filings hit 7,440 in the first half of the year compared to 6,604 in the same period last year, according to data compiled by Case Western Reserve University's Center on Urban Poverty and Community Development.

... "I don't see it getting better for at least two years, maybe three."
... "By and large we don't see bad loans anymore. These are good traditional loans...it's unemployment that's killing people."

... The data does show mortgage foreclosure filings declined about 6 percent from the first quarter of this year to the second quarter. But the number of such filings for the first half of this year still topped those from either their the first or second half of last year.

What does this mean for the Hunger Network?
Over the last few years and especially during the last year, the Hunger Network has seen a spike in service at our suburban hunger centers. Most of the new families in the suburbs visiting a hunger center are there because they have either lost their job or had their wages cut.

Summer Lunches

2010-07-01T07:08:00.000-07:00

posted 7/1/10

According to a report from the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) only 16% of students that received free or reduced-cost lunches during the school year were fed in the summer of 2009.

Summer food participation fell while regular year school lunch participation by low-income children rose by nearly 800,000 children from school year 2007-2008 to 2008-2009, showing how the recession has driven up need.

For imformation about the study click here.

Question?

2010-05-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, May 26, 2010
If you had nothing to eat for 2 days and could choose only one thing to eat what would it be? And Why that specific food? This is what many of low income people in the greater Cleveland area face on a regular basis.

Volunteering

2010-05-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, May 25, 2010. Yesterday we went to check out the hot-meal program at Cory Hunger Center and interview some of the volunteers. Since 1982, Cory Hunger Center has been providing a hot-meal for those in need for the last seven days of each month. There is one volunteer that has been at Cory's since its start in 1982 and she had lots to share with us about why she volunteers.

Pauline is an 81 year old widow with no children. She worked as a domestic engineer for well over thirty years and was still working when she began to volunteer at Cory's. In her hand she held a weathered pamphlet from 1988 recognizing those who had donated to the program as well as the volunteers there. Pauline had brought the pamphlet with her so that she would not forget anything. When asked what her favorite memories were from her volunteer work at the center, Pauline pointed to the list of volunteers on the back of the pamphlet and said "working with these people here." Though many of those people listed are no longer there, Pauline has never left. The last seven days of the month are what she looks forward to during those three weeks that she is not providing hot-meals for those in need in her community. Pauline loves to make connections with those she is helping as well as the people she is volunteering with. In the 28 years that Cory's has been running, it has only closed down once for a couple of months, but Pauline described those few months as "miserable." It is because of dedicated volunteers like Pauline that places like Cory's continue to serve the hungry in their communities.

Much of the success of the Hunger Network is in part to dedicated volunteers like Pauline. Many of the volunteers we meet are retired and we encourage the younger working generation to volunteer as well. Anyone can volunteer and it is a great way to give back to the community.

The Storm of Job Loss

2010-02-25T12:33:00.000-08:00

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25th, 2010.
The economic growth rate, which stands at 3%, is predicted to fall below 2% by the middle of the year, according to Wells Fargo estimates. Consumer spending is on the decline, and economic growth will be dependent on the private sector. The Labor Department reported last Thursday that first-time unemployment benefit claims has increased by 22,000, to the rate of 495,000. The 4 week average is 30,000.

The numbers don't lie, these are tough times in the job market. Blame is being placed for the higher claims on the recent snowstorms, causing a back log of claims. However, these higher claims mean that the unemployment rate, which hovers around 10 percent, likely rose in February. The snowstorms may have cost up to 100,000 jobs. This rise is no shock to the country, as devastation seems to be the adjective to describe the past several years of our economy.

More job layoffs mean less money for consumer spending. The economic rebound does not look like a slam dunk for this year. While we can not affect immediate change on the economy, we can continue to unite in this fight. Families are forced to dig deep in their pockets to fight hunger, many new to this struggle due to the recent snowstorms.

Let's remember to keep our heads up and help those in need. The Hunger Network looks forward to our 22nd Annual Majestic Steel Walk for Hunger, which is a key fundraiser in stopping hunger in the Greater Cleveland area. Please find ways to help in our community and mark May 8th in your calendars for the Walk!

Kick-Off the Walk

2010-02-09T10:59:00.000-08:00

February 9th, 2010. ATTENTION Clevelanders! The Majestic Steel Walk for Hunger is only 3 months away! But why wait 3 months to celebrate a community effort to stop hunger? Mark your calenders now and come join us KICK-OFF the walk on Wednesday, March 3rd at the Hard Rock Cafe (Tower City Center, 230 West Huron Rd., Cleveland, OH 44113). Treat yourselves to some FREE appetizers, soft drinks, and prizes and learn tips on how to lead your teams.

If you have not already done so, get yourselves registered for the Walk for Hunger. What an awesome way to support our community to help in the fight against hunger. Call us at 216-619-8155 ext. 18 or register online through our website. Bet you can do it in under 2 minutes :)

Can't walk? Volunteer! Volunteer as a route guide, pass out water at mid-points, join our Burke Harbor setup and clean up crews, or distribute breakfast and lunch. OR if you have a special talent, sign up as entertainment for the walk participants!

We genuinely appreciate your efforts in helping to support the Walk, the Hunger Network, and the community. Thank you for your assistance in pursuing our mission to feed the hungry families of the Greater Cleveland area! Hope to see you all at the Kick-Off celebration!

Fight Against Hunger Perseveres in 2010

2010-02-09T10:28:00.000-08:00

February 9th, 2010. As we commence 2010, the "Great Recession" continues to affect American families. Unemployment lingers around 10 percent, despite hopeful predictions of a decrease. 7 million jobs have been lost over the course of this economic crisis, beginning in December of 2007.

The Hunger Network is helping more families than ever before, a sign of the growing number of families in need of food. A recent visit to the Parma Hunger Center reinforced the predictions of the growing hunger rate, and at the same time demonstrated the strength of the community. Parma Hunger Center's Volunteer Manager, Arch Stevenson, shared with us that his hunger center provided meals to 27.5 percent more families in 2009 than the previous year, while 2008 numbers were 25 percent higher than 2007. Arch estimates an even higher increase for this year. He believes this based on to reasons: one, the community is still suffering job loss and two, the wall of fear families put up in asking for help is coming down. Some families wait until their kitchens are completely empty, Stevenson tells, before reaching out for help. But they have no choice other than to turn to the Hunger Center, where they are welcomed with open arms.

The Parma community shows endless support with food donations coming in constantly from the area food drives and the help of many volunteers. The Parma Hunger Center is a truly wonderful example of the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland's mission, which is to serve and help as many people as possible. The volunteers do an amazing job at orchestrating the flow of food in and out of the center into the hands of families in need.

Although the fight against hunger perseveres, the community is still at work. But this fight needs to be fought harder and stronger than ever! Please, donate what you can whether it be your time or directly to a hunger center. The community must continue to unite and stop hunger in its tracks!

Holiday Food Drive

2009-12-17T11:23:00.000-08:00

12/17/2009. The chilly Cleveland weather surely indicates that the holiday season is here. This time of the year is best shared with family and friends as celebrations of all kinds take place and we treat ourselves to the holiday cheer.

Unfortunately for some Clevelanders, the holiday season brings on more anxiety than cheer. Rather than dreaming of the seasonal festivities, the unfortunate are struggling to come up with ways to pay the heating bills during these cold winter months ahead and how to put food on the table. It is no secret that this year the job market remains very restrictive. Even over-qualified applicants are experiencing the turmoil in finding a job. In times like these, it is important to come together as a community and help those in need.

The Hunger Network's Holiday Drive is taking place now through January 31. All we ask is if you can help, please do. Even a little bit goes a long way as the Hunger Network is able to provide 4 nutritionally balanced meals for $1. Our goal this year is to raise more than $500,000 to feed hungry children and families during the holiday season and winter months. Do the math...that's 2 million meals! 2 million meals feeds a whole bunch of hungry stomachs.

Children are an essential aspect of the holiday spirit, and it is our obligation to provide them with the best we can. No child deserves to go cold or hungry this winter. Over half of the people we feed are children, who remain helpless in this economic recession.

Again, all we request is that you give what you can. There are many ways to donate, whether it be hosting a Hunger Network food and/or fund drive, donating at our website, or even making a donation to the Hunger Network in the name of a special individual as a holiday gift. We must unite as a community in the fight against hunger this holiday season!

Household Hunger on the Rise

2009-11-19T13:25:00.000-08:00

Today is Thursday, November 19th. Hunger in U.S. households has quickly evolved into an epidemic in this economic crisis. The number of housholds struggling to feed their families has increased from 4 million to 17 million, a true reflection of recession-driven job losses within the past year. The cycle of layoffs, increased poverty, and unemployment ultimately results in household hunger increases of nearly 30% from 2008. This is a point of major concern, for some families no longer have the luxury of providing well-balanced meals and focus on merely putting food in their stomachs. These households are starving for work, for money, and for food.

Reports from November 16, 2009 on household food shortages show that this amounts to 14.6% of the population, or about 49 million people. The USDA classifies these suffering households as having "food insecurity" which means they do not have enough food for an active, healthy lifestyle. According to The Plain Dealer, two-thirds of a group of people used to conduct phone interviews shared that they have very low food security and often go hungry. Even more devastationg, 27% admitted that some days thay eat nothing at all.

According to Mark Nord with the USDA's economic research service, numbers are likely to increase next year. Another shocking statistic is that almost one in four children in our country live on the brink of hunger. The president of Feeding America, Vickie Escarra, said,"The escalating unemployment rate and the number of working-poor lead us to believe that the number of people facing hunger will continue to rise significantly over the coming year. Research on previous economic recessions indicates that people who fall into the grips of poverty in a time of recession do not recover financially."

The reality is that in order to lower these numbers it is going to take a concentrated effort. This country as a whole needs to make a major commitment to fighting hunger. But in order to put a dent in these statistics, a focus needs to be taken within our community. Every little bit helps, and this is what the Hunger Network is here to prove. We are the liaison between your assistance and the hungry people of Greater Cleveland. The face of hunger may be your neighbor, your mail-person, a relative, or even you.

The point is, hunger does not discriminate. All we ask is that you give what you can in this time of need and most especially during the holiday season. For some families, Thanksgiving dinner is not about the turkey but about having something to offer at the dinner table. Help give these hungry families a Thanksgiving meal that they will be undoubtedly thankful for. Donate today!

Helping those that have served for our country

2009-10-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

Today is Thursday, October 29th. I met 2 extraordinary men who depend on the Hunger Network for food. Why are these men extraordinary? Because they have both served our country as a member of the military... One just got back from Iraq and the other is a Vietnam War veteran.

Joel is 32 years old and has 12 years of military service. He is currently in the Army Reserved. Back in 2006 he was deployed to Iraq for 16 months. When he returned home toward the end of 2007, he found himself with out a job and a family to support. Joel has spent the last 2 years looking for work in security or really anything because he needs a job. He has gone on lots of interviews and filled out hundreds of application but is never chosen for the position. Kellie his fiance was only able to find a part time job. Not knowing what else to do and with small children to feed, they turned to the Hunger Network for help. Without the help of the Hunger Network... Joel says it is not about feeding himself because he could go without.... it is about feeding his children.

Roger is a 62 year old Vietnam War Veteran with service with the US Navy. He served 6 months in Vietnam before he was injured. Once he returned home and for the last 30 year or so, Roger worked in security and did some factory work. Following his wife and father's deaths in the last few year... He took in his 88 year old mother. About 3 years ago... Roger's health took a turn for the worst and now he is unable to work at all. Roger now lives on a fixed income and after rent and utilities... he doesn't have enough money for food for him and his mother. He also turned to the Hunger Network for help. Roger says that the volunteers at the hunger center are so nice and he is thankful every day for the help.

Hearing these 2 stories for the first time this morning, makes me understand even more how important the work of the Hunger Network is because if anyone should receive help... it is those in the military.... just like we depended on them... they depend on us!

It can happen to anyone!

2009-10-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

Today we spoke with people in need at the Hunger Network's Parma Hunger Center. The Parma area has been hit very hard with the jobs losses in the auto industry and more. In fact the Parma Hunger center is providing food to 40% more individuals in 2009 then in 2008... That is just incredible.

Of the 8 people we spoke with today 7 of them have lost their jobs in the last year. These are hard working people that never thought they would end up needing help. Two stories in particular were very heart breaking.

Joann is a woman in her late 40s/early 50s. Her husband passed away when her 2 daughters were very young. She was determined to survive and worked 2 jobs to put herself through school and both of her daughters through college. She succeed at all of those things including providing her family with a respectable 4 bedroom home and living a typical middle class life. She has spent last several years in the medical research field. Then in the winter of 2009 her nightmare began. The research she was working was shut down and Joann found herself without a job. Unable to keep up with her mortgage, her house is currently for sale. Joann has done everything she can think of to find a job... She is working with headhunters and has sent out over 500 resumes. Everyone tells her that she has too much experience for them to hire her. Running out of options, she has turned to the Hunger Network for help.

Gary is 49 year old divorced man with a 24 year old child. He has an engineering degree and has worked as a mechanical engineer. Gary has been working since he was 16. He recalls having money taken out of his paychecks to help charities. Just over one year ago, Gary was laid off for the first time in his life. Gary has tried everything to find a job but he also told that he has too much experience. Gary tells them he is will to work for anything just to survive. He currently spends 4-5 hours every day trying to find a job. Gary worries that he only has another month in his apartment. With his unemployment not enough to cover rent, utilities and food... He turned to the Hunger Network of help.

Joann and Gary are not alone... so many people in the greater Cleveland area are suffering. We need your help. Please consider making a donation to the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland

THE HUNGERNETWORK LAUNCHES TO STOP HUNGER IN ITS TRACKS WITH OUR NEW & IMPROVED WEBSITE

2009-10-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

WELCOME to the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland's brand new site! The website has undergone a one year re-innovation process, now offering hunger fighters a more interactive experience sharing personal stories, videos, and blogs. This updated site is simple to navigate and provides you easy access to information about us, the latest news, ways you can help, upcoming event information, and ways to receive our help. With the holiday season fast approaching, the Hunger Network is hosting several events to aid those suffering during this special time of the year. View the list of events on our site!
You can help! In this current economic environment, more hungry people are coming to our centers for emergency food than ever before. Our enhanced website presents the convenience of donating online, as well as information regarding ways to volunteer.

Explore our site to learn more about the Hunger Network and its history in the fight against hunger. Our mission is to reduce hunger in the Cuyahoga County community by providing food and linkages to other vital services for hungry people, especially children and families, by actively participating in a coordinated response to people in need. Spread the word and get involved in the fight to stop hunger in its tracks!

Let us know what you think of the new site! Comment and keep logging in for our latest blogs!

A special thank you to 3VERB,Inc., the host of our website, for donating their design, as well as the Hunger Network's Volunteer Marketing Committee for their time and dedication in this one year transformation.
Let us know what you think of the new site. Comment and keep logging in for our latest blogs!

Thank You

2009-10-05T12:58:00.001-07:00

The Hunger Network would like to thank everyone that attended Rolling on the River, Friday, October 2nd. This 3rd year event hosted over 250 people and raised over $34,000 for the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland.

Party goers enjoyed casino style gambling, live music from Jugular Jack, food, wine, beer, silent auction and raffle.

View pictures for the event here: http://cleveland.metromix.com/events/photogallery/cleve-lens-rolling-on/1512606/content

A special thank you to event chair, Tim Carney, and his committee for their dedication to the success of the event. We would also like to thank presenting sponsor, Ferro Corporation, for their continued support.

You won't want to miss this event

2009-09-17T12:11:00.000-07:00

Rolling on the River is Friday, October 2nd. A fabulous party to benefit the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland- a Casino themed event complete with food, gaming, live music, beer, wine and an exciting silent auction. Individual Tickets are $60 in advance and $65 at the door. Purchase tickets at www.hungernetwork.org

Welcome to the Hunger Network Blog

2009-09-14T13:32:00.001-07:00

On a regular basis check out the Hunger Network blog for updates and information. We encourage comments as well.

The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland Helps Stop Hunger in its Tracks!

Purchase Rolling on the River Tickets

2009-09-11T10:53:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day to purchase Rolling on the River tickets for only $50 each. Tomorrow the ticket price will go up to $60 each. Buy your tickets at www.hungernetwork.org

Facts about the Hunger Network

2009-04-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

60,000 people per month receive emergency food at one of our center or hot meal programs…that is 17,000 more than the capacity of Progressive Field.
25,000, or forty one percent of those served each month are children.
The Hunger Network serves 6,500,000 meals per year.
Over 75% of the emergency food in Greater Cleveland is distributed by the Hunger Network.
The Hunger Network purchases food from the food bank and other food wholesalers and then puts that nutritious food directly into the hands of the truly needy.
The Hunger Network pays for 95% of the food it gives to the hungry.
The Hunger Network is an effective and efficient delivery system with centers strategically located throughout Cleveland's neighborhoods and surrounding suburbs.
The Hunger Network distributes food at over 100 hunger center pantries and hot meal programs throughout Cuyahoga County.
More than 1000 caring volunteers work in our centers and provide more then just a food to the people we serve.
94% of the Hunger Network's annual expenses is for program costs, while 5% is for fundraising and .61% is for administrative costs.
The Hunger Network employs 3 full time staff members (Community Liaisons) who perform onsite direct client and agency outreach to connect the hungry to other vital resources including, but not limited to, food stamps, child care, health care, job assistance, rental and utility assistance.