Food insecurity and hunger are problems for many Americans. According to Feeding America, 12% of Indiana households and 15% of Hoosier children were food insecure in 2019.

Salem Mayor Justin Green said it’s the local food bank that makes a real difference in the lives of residents who face empty pantry shelves.

Each year during the month of September we celebrate National Food Bank Day.

National Food Bank Day commemorates all the volunteers who give of their time to help meet the food needs in their communities.

“Without our local food bank, there are families and children who would not have enough to eat,” said Mayor Green. “I deeply appreciate the hardworking volunteers who give so selflessly to meet the food needs of our residents.”

Green said it’s sobering to realize how many people hunger affects. According to Feeding America, one in eight Hoosiers and even more children - one in seven - don’t have enough food to eat.

Food banks help fill this gap by providing a temporary supply of nutritious food to families on a regular basis. They can’t do that without ongoing community support.

“I urge all groups, organizations, families, churches and individuals to consider donating regularly to our food bank,” said Green. “They can only do their important work with our ongoing support.”

Suggested items include non-perishable foods such as canned meats, beans, vegetables, and fruits; cereals; peanut butter; meals in a can/box; 100% fruit juice and items with pop-top lids that can be opened without a can opener.

If you are unable to shop for items to donate, monetary donations are welcomed and put to use to purchase items such as fresh meat and dairy products and to fill any gaps on the food bank’s shelves.

“Our residents have done a tremendous job of supporting our local food bank over the years,” said Green. “I thank them for their support.”

This September is a great time to donate to the food bank, thank those who volunteer each week and perhaps consider becoming a volunteer yourself.

“I’m so grateful for our food bank and all those who work behind the scenes each and every week to continue this important work,” said Green. “Thank you.”