Oregon Hunger 101
A Problem We Cannot Ignore
Hunger is expensive for all of us
A 2007 report (PDF, 1.42 MB) estimated that hunger in Oregon costs $1.2 billion each year. We pay through lowered academic and economic productivity, more hunger-related illnesses, and greater reliance on human services and food assistance programs.
Hunger is a public health concern with long-term consequences
There is evidence that food insecurity contributes to obesity and its subsequent health problems, particularly among women. Fetal malnutrition (PDF, 292 KB) can result in poorer overall school achievement and compromised health throughout a child's life. Undernourished seniors can show symptoms of dementia and are more prone to falling injuries.
Rural communities hit hard
Hunger is a particular concern for rural communities that have limited access to fresh and affordable foods due to geographic isolation and higher transportation costs.
Some experience hunger at higher rates
African-Americans, Latinos, and female-headed single parent families experience food insecurity at higher rates than the national average.
Ending hunger requires addressing root causes
Food Box Distribution in Oregon 2001-2009
Source: Oregon Food Bank
Food assistance programs have short-term impact
The most common response to hunger is to feed people immediately. Although extremely important, this does not address the underlying causes of hunger. Additionally, the number of Oregonians who need help continues to grow placing an unreasonable burden on Oregon's food assistance network.
Oregon's Call to Action 2010-2015
Ending Hunger Before it Begins: Oregon's Call to Action is designed to guide Oregon’s collective efforts over the next five years to make sure all Oregonians can put healthy food on their tables every day. Your actions will have a measurable impact.
There is a role for eveyone to play
- Learn about the programs we support.
- Sign up for eNews.
- Learn about the many ways you can take action to end hunger.
References
The changing face of food and nutrition in Canada and the United States
The Economic Cost of Domestic Hunger - Estimated Annual Burden to the United States (PDF, 1.42 MB)
Food Insecurity Is Positively Related to Overweight in Women
Household Food Security in the United States, 2008
The Paradox of Hunger and Obesity in America (PDF, 292 KB)
