LETTER: Act now to help feed hungry Oregonians

Published 8:00 am Thursday, November 21, 2024

In the wake of the decisions made on the federal level, we’re going to see an increase in houseless individuals in Oregon and families needing immediate access to crucial resources.

For so many families in our city, the increase in basic needs costs will cut into decisions over affording rent or food each month.

Local community organizations play an indispensable role in tackling hunger, homelessness, and poverty. They provide immediate relief and support. And they also offer something deeper: a sense of belonging and solidarity in the face of hardship.

Local community organizations help create networks of care, build resilience, and empower people to advocate for the changes that will ensure no one is left behind.

As the community organizer with Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon, my hope is that for the next four years, our state bands together to ensure that no one goes hungry and we can focus our efforts on building a more resilient system that does not depend on constant push and pull of federal funding.

Now is the time to strengthen the fabric of our community by supporting those organizations that are doing the vital work of feeding, housing, and advocating for Oregonians.

Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or checking in on your neighbors, every action matters. Do what you can, where you can. Your community needs you.

Charlie Krouse

Southeast Portland