Ending hunger will require a partnership between government, business, individuals, and charities. Despite what some would argue, private charities will never have the capacity to meet the needs of hungry Americans without government having a major role. It is for this reason that it is critical for those of us in the anti-hunger movement to be informed and involved in the legislative process. You can help by contacting your elected officials.

In this section of our website, we will focus on state and local legislative initiatives and policies that impact hunger. The America’s Second Harvest website offers information about the federal level, so we will refer you there if that is your interest - www.secondharvest.org/policy/policy.html .

YOU CAN HELP – CONTACT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS!

To find out how to contact your elected officials, click on the link elected officials. This will take you to the North Carolina General Assembly's website where you may obtain this information. If you don't know who your state or federal elected officials are, their website will help you find out. All you need is your 9-digit zip code or county of residence. It's a good tool! Listed below is the contact information needed for our two federally-elected senators.

NORTH CAROLINA

SNAP (State Nutrition Assistance Program):

Since 1996, the NC General Assembly has awarded funding to the six America’s Second Harvest Food Banks in our state. The allocation is divided evenly among the food banks in Asheville, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, Raleigh, Fayetteville, and Elizabeth City. Together we serve partner agencies in all 100 counties of North Carolina. The funding is designated for the bulk purchase of nutritious food items that are never received in sufficient quantities through donation – items like peanut butter and canned fruits and vegetables.

Millions of meals to hungry North Carolinians have been made possible through SNAP at an average cost of about 50 cents per meal. We encourage you to let your state elected officials know what a good investment it is and encourage them to continue the program each year.

WORK FIRST:

This is the NC version of TANF (Temporary Aid to Needy Families), the federal welfare program that was the result of 1996 welfare reform legislation. While the goal of reducing the welfare roles has been accomplished, evidence suggests that former Work First participants may not be in a better situation. The poverty rate over the last 3 years has increased slightly, and the number of people fed by Second Harvest partner agencies has increased each year.

For welfare reform to be successful, former recipients must be prepared for jobs that will support their families. Training, child care, healthcare, and transportation are critical needs. The safety net food programs of Food Stamps, WIC, and the School Breakfast and Lunch programs are also vital. Please let your state representatives in NC know of your support for these initiatives.

MECKLENBURG COUNTY AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Mecklenburg County provides the building for Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina rent-free, along with insurance, security, maintenance and a portion of the utilities. This generous support is enjoyed by very few America’s Second Harvest Food Banks across the nation. We encourage you to let Mecklenburg County Commissioners know of your appreciation.