Record enrollment in SNAP/Food Stamps in May 2010
posted August 23, 2010Full study available on frac.org
A new Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) analysis showed that 40.8 millsion people particiated in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formaly knowns as Food Stamps) in May, an increase of 370,971 individuals from April 2010 and an increase of nearly 6.4 million people compared with May 2009.
The new numbers present a new record for SNAP participation and reflect the continued economic challenges facing many Americans. According to an August 3 FRAC release, approximately one in eight Americans receives SNAP benefits.
Cleveland Schools will no longer help needy students buy uniforms
posted July 20, 2010full article printed in The Plain Dealer on Tuesday, July 20th by Thomas Ott
The Cleveland school district will continue requiring students to wear uniforms but because of hudget cuts will no longer help thousands of needy children pay for their clothing.
The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland has been quietly assisting with school uniforms since the requirement began in 2007. In 2009 the Hunger Network received over 1000 requests for uniform assistance but was only able to help just over 200 through our liaison project. Concerned that requests will increase dramatically in the next few weeks and months, we are hopeful that the community will step up and help.
There are two ways to help:
For more information or to donate contact Michelle at 216-619-8155, ext. 18 or email mwohlfeiler@hungernetwork.org.
The Heart of the Organization
posted July 6, 2010At the heart of the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland is a corps of dedicated volunteers who serve on the front lines of our efforts to stop hunger in its tracks. These are the people who day after day administer to the needs of the almost 60,000 people every month who receive nutritious emergency meals from our pantries and hot meal programs throughout Cuyahoga County. Many of the 1,100 volunteers at our centers are seasoned veterans who have devoted upwards of thirty years helping feed the hungry.
In the City
Not long ago we had the opportunity to talk with Pauline Pettway, a volunteer at our hot-meal program housed in The Cory United Methodist Church. Since 1982, Cory Kitchen has been providing hot-meals for those in need, during the last seven days of each month. Most of those coming to Cory are low income or unemployed and 60% are children. Pauline, a spry widow, 81 years young, is one of the original volunteers who started helping when the kitchen opened 28 years ago. She has done everything from cooking and serving to cleaning up. Now she works at intake, greeting and signing in clients.
Pauline worked as a domestic engineer for well over thirty years and still found time to volunteer at Cory. When asked what her favorite memories were from her volunteer work at the hot meal program, Pauline showed us a program from the 1988 volunteer recognition event, she pointed to a list of volunteers 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 all the years that Cory 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 itchen continue to serve more than just food in their communities.
In the Suburbs
The Hunger Network's Maple Heights Food Pantry has 18 volunteers serving on average 700 people every month. The baby of this volunteer brigade is 45-year-old Kimberly Swinney who has been helping for over a year. Swinney has always been an avid community volunteer, and has been donating her time with the visually impaired for years. "Volunteering is a wonderful way to give back to the community,"
Kimberly says. She came to help at the hunger center after losing her job with Avery Denison where she was a customer service manager for over thirteen years. Kimberly wanted something meaningful to do while she was looking for another position. Fortunately, her husband has his own business. Her job loss has not been as detrimental as it might have been had she been the only breadwinner.
At the food pantry Kimberly assists with unloading the truck every week, stocks shelves, works the desk, or does whatever they need her to do. She has made a lot of dear friends working at the center. Most of her colleagues are older, retired and have lots of sage advise. Maple Heights Food Pantry manager, Evelyn Knuckles says that the volunteers at her center are like a little family and they truly support each other in everything. Much of the success of the Hunger Network is due to dedicated volunteers like Pauline, Kimberly and Evelyn who give their time to help make a difference in so many lives.
On a Committee
The Hunger Network has yet another constituency of wonderful volunteers. These are the Trustees, Community Resource Committee and a myriad of other committees including our young professionals group, Friends of the Hunger Network. Four years ago a steering committee was formed to create a group that would help friend raise and fund raise for the Hunger Network. Dana Irribarren, the Hunger Network's Executive Director said, "Our hope was to tap into a younger demographic that had not been involved in volunteering... a group that could eventually become the leadership of the Hunger Network going forth." The Friends Committee was formed in 2007 and produced its first event, Rolling On The River, that same year. This great group of people from many different fields has come together and through their donation of time and talent has become a cohesive group, created an event, set and surpassed all their goals. Just one of these dedicated volunteers from this group is Tim Carney who works for the CAVS, at The Q. Tim has been on the committee for three years. He is chair of the committee for the second year and we cannot say enough about his leadership.
Tim is passionate about the Hunger Network's mission and he truly inspires the entire committee to do their best. Tim says the main reason he started volunteering was because he was working downtown and he wanted to give back to the City of Cleveland and get involved with a local philanthropy to help others. "I love this town and I
personally felt it was the right thing to do for me to have a sense of self worth and civic pride." He attended the first Rolling On The River event and that's when he learned about the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. After attending the event he joined the Friends committee and got involved. He wanted to make a difference and contribute. Tim says, "I also wanted to reduce hunger in our community and help struggling families and children who needed some assistance to get back on their feet." The most rewarding part for Tim is that the time he sets aside each month to help raise awareness and contribute to the Hunger Network's mission can make a big difference to the less fortunate in our community. "To me, helping others is very rewarding and puts a smile on my face."
There are over a thousand volunteers giving of themselves to help the Hunger Network in many ways. Last year volunteers logged in well over 363,930 hours working at our hunger centers and meal sites. Volunteers are the heart of this organization and there would be not a Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland without them. We tip our hats to all of you for your time, dedication and hard work. You are truly helping make our community better for people in need.
Visit www.hungernetwork.org for updates on available volunteer opportunities with the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland
Food Fight
posted June 30, 2010Printed in Scene Magazine on June 30th by Kyle Swenson
If Cleveland's got a surplus of anything, it's mouths to feed. The region has seen an uptick in demand for emergency food services in the wake of the recession, as more and more people face the daunting question of where their next meal will come from.
"Mega-agencies don't understand the nature of the people in the neighborhoods."
Find the full story here.
Survival in the Suburbs
posted February 25, 2010American families prepare to tediously cut corners financially once again with the arrival of 2010. Optimism is in the air for signs of improvement however "the Great Recession", as it is being referred to, perseveres into another year with unemployment rates still reaching around 10 percent. The nation has suffered the loss of over 7 million jobs since the beginning of this economic crisis in December 2007. The past several years have been saturated by financial struggles but fortunately families are aware that they are not alone in this uphill battle and appreciate that places to turn for help exist. The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland takes great pride in knowing that even the littlest bit of assistance offered can go a long way.
Joann turns to the Hunger Network's Parma Hunger Center every other month, grateful to receive wellbalanced food to help her get by. She is a proud mother of two sons, Adam, 35, and Zachary, 31, who both currently live in Columbus, work for the Department of Defense and have families. Joann was widowed when her sons were only 9 years old and 5 years old. Adam developed diabetes shortly after the death of his father which created another expense to overcome. At that time she was working part-time and took an active role in her sons' lives. The sudden death of her husband left her in a financial rut and some questioned if she would be able to take care of her family on her own. This only fueled Joann's fire as she immediately took action to rebuild her family's life. Joann took on a full-time and parttime job, raised her sons with the help of family and friends, and even put both boys through college at Cleveland State University and Ohio State University.
In addition to work and raising two young boys, Joann earned a degree in Medical Terminology at Cleveland State University and began working at Deaconess Hospital until it closed in 2003. Joann raved about her job and spoke of how she was able to skillfully decipher the doctor's handwriting. She continued her work at the Cleveland Clinic until she was contacted by MetroHealth Hospital, offering her a higher salary. Joann was working, as an assistant in spinal research, a job she was very passionate about and lived a life with the security of a steady income. When MetroHealth lost grant money last February, Joann lost her job and has remained unemployed since. "I thought with my experience and abilities, I would have no problem finding another job," Joann explains, "I was so wrong." The unexpected loss has left her bored and depressed as she relentlessly looks for employment. She actively job hunts at the library, finding that this is the only activity she can partake in without spending money. Joann is afraid her age is a factor in her unsuccessful job search and currently has her home of 29 years up for sale.
The beautiful thing about Joann's struggle is that she fails to complain. With no savings, Joann carefully plans the logistics of her errands, sacrifices treating herself and only buys absolute needs, and monitors the use of her utilities. The 2009 holiday season marked the first time Joann could not afford to purchase Christmas gifts for anyone including her sons or grandson. Despite hardships, Joann is thankful and has a keen ability to use the staple foods provided by the Parma Hunger Center in a variety of ways. "A good cook can make something out of nothing", Joann mentions as she describes her many uses for what some would see as a plain jar of tomato sauce. Joann's next door neighbor lost her accounting job last year and they now pool their resources. Joann knows how to stretch her budget, and does so wisely.
Arch Stevenson, Parma Hunger Center Volunteer Manager, sees more and more people in Joann's situation utilizing the hunger center. In fact, the Parma Hunger Center provided nutritious meals to 27.5% more families in 2009 than 2008, while 2008 was up 25% over 2007. This means that in just two short years this one hunger center has encountered a 50% increase. Note that the Parma Hunger Center is one of over one hundred Hunger Network hunger centers and hot meal programs. Arch notes two main reasons for this increase: one, more people are in need because the Parma community has been hit very hard with job losses and two, the stigma of asking for help is decreasing. "Everyone who comes in for help is treated with respect, we know that asking for help can be difficult and we strive to make everyone feel comfortable," explains Arch. Some have waited until their kitchen is completely empty with not even a can of soup before reaching out for help. Unfortunately, Arch predicts an even larger increase in 2010.
How does the hunger center deal with this large increase?Thankfully this center is part of the Hunger Network and cherishes their financial and leadership support. "We as volunteers have a great relationship with the Hunger Network and are thankful for the wonderful assistance they provide," Arch shares his thoughts. Arch continues to be atonished by the support from the local Parma community with food donations coming in consistently from area food drives and so many others who want to volunteer.
Similar to Parma, all of the Hunger Network's suburban hunger centers have seen dramatic increases over the last two years. More and more families are struggling to make ends meet due to job loss and economic hardship. Families with food insecurities depend on the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland for assistance. The Hunger Network looks at the faces of hunger every day and responds to the needs of the people we support. Hunger in the greater Cleveland community is truly unforgiveable; we need your support TODAY!
Donate to the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, complete the enclosed envelope and send it to the Hunger Network, donate online:www.hungernetwork.org or call 216-619-8155.
Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, Stopping Hunger in its Tracks!
Hungry for Food & Work
posted December 14, 2009The current financial crisis leaves many families hungry for both food and work this holiday
season. Given the economic situation, the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland expects to provide special holiday meals to more families than ever.
The Hunger Network's mission is to prevent families' financial issues from putting a damper on "the most wonderful time of the year" by
distributing bags to over 19,000 families. These bags include poultry, stuffing, vegetables, and other holiday items. Thousands of low income families also visit Hunger Network hot meal sites for holiday meals during November and December. Hunger does not discriminate. Families of all sizes and ages are faced with financial obstacles and depend on the Hunger Network during these hard times.
Gary is 49 year old divorced man with
a 24 year old daughter. He has an engineering degree and has worked as a mechanical engineer. Just over one year ago, Gary was laid off for the first time in his life. He currently spends 4-5 hours every day trying to find a job but is continually told he is over qualified. With his unemployment not enough to cover rent, utilities and food, he turned to the Hunger Network for help.
Kellie is supporting her family with her job as a part-time server. Since Joel, having served 16 months in Iraq has not been able to find a job since his return last year. Their household includes Joel's mom and three boys ages 4, 7 and 12. They count on the aid of the Hunger Network to help feed their family.
Diane, who has a teenage son living at home, first came to a Hunger Network food pantry in 2008. Diagnosed with advanced uterine cancer, Diane had to quit her job to undergo a strenuous treatment regimen. Thankfully, her health is improving and she is trying hard to find a job. She is the sole provider
for her family and without a paycheck coming in... the bills are mounting. She is grateful for the Hunger Network and the food and resources they
provide.
These households are just a few of the many in Cuyahoga County who face the same reality. Your assistance is crucial in stopping hunger from spoiling the holiday season for the those in need. One dollar is all it takes for the
Hunger Network to provide 4 meals, proof that a little bit can go a long way. Consider donating and spreading some holiday cheer by filling hungry stomachs with a holiday meal. To donate this holiday season complete the enclosed envelope and return it the Hunger Network, or donate online:www.hungernetwork.org.
Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, Stopping Hunger in its Tracks!
Study: Half of U.S. children will have used food stamps
posted November 4, 2009Printed in The Plain Dealer on November 3rd from Lindsey Tanner, Associated Press
Nearly half of of all U.S. Children will be on food stamps at some point during childhood, and fallout from the current recession could push those numbers even higher, researchers say.
The estimate comes from an analysis of 30 years of national data, and it bolsters other recent evidence on the pervastiveness of youngsters at economic risk. It suggests that almost everyone knows a family who has received food stamps, or will in the future, said lead author Mark Rank, a socialogist at Washington University in St. Louis.
Find the full story here
Hawken Middle School Service Day
posted October 28, 2009On Thursday, October 22nd 16 8th graders from Hawken Middle School volunteered with the Hunger Network as part of a service day about hunger and homelessness. They volunteered at the Hunger Network's Heights Emergency Center located inside of the Disiples Christian Church on Mayfield Rd. in Cleveland Heights.
The students shared their thoughts and experiences about volunteering at the hunger center on a blog.
One Family's Struggle
posted October 1, 2009Since the 1980s Connie Johnson, age 44, has been a volunteer for the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland's Confirmed Word Faith Center. This Hunger Network Alliance Food Pantry is located in the basement of Connie's church. Confirmed Word Faith Center distributes bags of nutritious meals to approximately 90 families every month. While most hunger centers are opened 2 to 3 days a week, alliance pantries are open only one or two days per month.
Connie and her husband, Raymond, are typical parents, always willing to go without to ensure their children receive everything they need and help them reach their dreams. Sierra, their 12-year-old daughter, loves to sing and hopes to become a nurse when she grows up. Their 9 year old son, Raymond, Jr.'s favorite subject in school is spelling and he wants to work with cars when he is older.
Nine years ago, Connie, Raymond and their children lived a simple life. Sierra, was 3 years old and Raymond Jr., only 6 months old at the time. Connie worked days at a local country club, while Raymond worked nights as a diesel mechanic. Since they needed both incomes to sustain the family; this way one of them was always home with their young children. One afternoon, Raymond realized that Raymond, Jr. was having trouble breathing and was turning blue. After being rushed to the hospital, doctors found that Raymond Jr. had a hole in his heart and emergency open-heart surgery was performed on this tiny baby. Following this ordeal, Raymond Jr. needed constant care, forcing Connie to decrease her work hours. "Seeing my baby fight for his life was so scary it is hard to discuss," Connie explains emotionally.
Because of Connie's reduced financial contribution to the family income, Raymond felt the additional pressure to provide for his family. "I would work temporary and/or part time jobs on top of my full time job," Raymond explained, "I would always go without something to make sure my kids have what they needed." Then in 2004, Raymond was injured at work when a 400 lb. sheet fell and crushed his hands and toes. Raymond was physically unable to work following the accident, adding tremendous financial burden on the family. Worried that money received from disability would not be enough, Connie began looking for a better job. Connie, who has worked since she was 14 years old, found it very difficult to find a better job, though she was able to find some seasonal work in a call center. The seasonal work was not consistent and for the first time Connie and Raymond knew they needed assistance.
Thankfully, Connie knew where to turn for help, the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland. "I don't ask for anything unless I really need it," Connie expressed how difficult it was to ask for help. After so many years of volunteering at a hunger center, it was strange for Connie to need the emergency food. Her family began receiving bags of nutritious food from the same hunger center where she was also a volunteer. With income from her temporary work, Connie does not rely on emergency food every month, only 6-8 months a year. Connie understands how important the Hunger Network is to her community. "As a volunteer, I could tell how happy and relieved people receiving food were," Connie said, "but I did not understand the stress and pressure released when you leave the hunger center with enough food for your entire family, until the first time I received a bag." Connie appreciated that she would be able to put nutritious food on her family's dinner table.
Akilah Ashraf, one of three Hunger Network Community Liaisons, visits hunger centers on a regular basis. The Hunger Network Community Liaisons 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. Once hearing about Connie's family struggles, Akilah spent time with her to help identify other areas of assistance and how the Hunger Network could help. Through the Hunger Network, Akilah was able to provide school uniforms and coats for the kids along with some utility assistance. Connie knew the Hunger Network had a program to help with other needs but never imagined that she would ever be a recipient.
Connie is not alone. Unfortunately more and more families are struggling to make ends meet due to job loss and/or illness. Families with food insecurities depend on the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland for support. The Hunger Network looks at the faces of hunger every day and responds to the needs of the people we support. Hunger in greater Cleveland is truly unforgiveable; we need you to become involved!
To donate to the Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, complete the enclosed envelope and send it to the Hunger Network, donate online at www.hungernetwork.org or call 216-619-8155
.Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland, Stopping Hunger in its Tracks!
