OKLAHOMA CITY — The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma and Hunger Free Oklahoma will host Anti-Hunger Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol on Tuesday, Feb. 25.
“It takes more than food to fight hunger and it’s important to have that conversation with elected officials,” said Kendra Loper, chief community engagement officer at the Regional Food Bank. “It’s vital that we work together not only on this date but every day as we work to end hunger and help Oklahoma families thrive.”
Formerly known as Hunger Action Day, Anti-Hunger Day brings together employees and volunteers from the three organizations to meet with state lawmakers and discuss ideas on how to make an impact in the lives of Oklahomans living with hunger.
Oklahoma is the fifth hungriest state in the nation. The Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, Regional Food Bank, and Hunger Free Oklahoma work daily to ensure the one in six Oklahomans living with food insecurity have access to the resources they need.
“As an organization we spend the entire year collaborating with agencies and elected officials at the local, state and federal level to find the best nutritional outcomes for our state,” said Chris Bernard, executive director at Hunger Free Oklahoma. “So, we’re thrilled volunteers from all of our organizations can also connect with legislators personally on a topic that’s a priority for them. We all know that ending hunger must include both direct assistance and strong policy; we’re excited for a day that highlights that mission.”
The three organizations actively advocate for policies that remove barriers and increase both access and awareness to food and nutrition programs. Volunteers at the event will also be asking lawmakers to consider policies that address the intersections of hunger and health.
“We know hunger is a devastating obstacle for Oklahomans facing food insecurity to overcome,” said Ryan Walker, interim CEO at the Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma. “When children, adults and seniors don’t receive adequate nutrition, their health outcomes suffer. Our state can only flourish when we provide opportunities for everyone to succeed, and access to nutritious food is the common denominator.”
Those that wish to volunteer for the event can sign up by clicking here. Multiple training sessions will be available for those who wish to attend. The sessions will walk volunteers through what to expect during Anti-Hunger day and offer more information on issues to discuss with lawmakers.
For more information, contact Bailey Perkins, state advocacy and public policy director for the Oklahoma Food Banks, at bperkins@rfbo.org or 405-600-3175.
–Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma
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