According to Feeding America, more than 72 percent of the food banks surveyed at the end of 2008 were unable to adequately meet the demands of the hungry without limiting their operations or reducing the amount of food offered. Here's how you can help:
Write a check. Make a contribution to your local food bank, Feeding America, or another organization that fights hunger.
Volunteer. See the face of hunger for yourself. Most pantries have several tasks available, such as shopping, stocking shelves, sorting donations, or assisting clients.
Donate food you would cook for your own family. Think healthy and simple. Avoid large, price club-sized cans or bags (most organizations can't split these into smaller portions). Reject the impulse to clean out your pantry.
Let your local and state politicians know you care about hunger, and vote accordingly. For updates on political issues affecting hunger, visit FeedingAmerica.org and click the "Advocate" tab.
Host a neighborhood, school, church, or youth-group food drive. Ask your local food pantry what types of food are needed. Include that information when you solicit donations.