Hunger in America 2010 is an extensive nationwide study of hunger in our country conducted by Feeding America. This study is the first of its kind to capture the significant connection between the recent economic downturn and an increased need for emergency food assistance. The results are clear—hunger is on the rise, and more and more Americans are turning to food banks for help.

Hunger in America 2010 reveals some startling numbers: Feeding America, through our network of food banks and the agencies we serve, provided emergency food assistance to 37 million people in the past year, including nearly 14 million children and 3 million seniors-that's a 46 percent increase in the number of people receiving emergency food assistance compared to a similar study four years ago.

Highlights from the Hunger in America 2010 Study:

• One in eight Americans receives food assistance from the nation’s charitable food distribution system annually.
• There was a 50 percent increase in the number of children served through our network compared to 2006 - many were first time users of food banks.
• Feeding America food banks provide more than 75 percent of the food served through food pantries, and up to 50 percent of the food provided at soup kitchens and emergency shelters.
• The Federal Government plays an important role in the fight against hunger by funding programs that provide relief for hungry Americans—in fact, it is the largest provider of food for our country’s at-risk children.

What you can do!

Educating our lawmakers about hunger in America is critical as we advocate for anti-hunger programs that will make a real difference for those seeking food assistance. With Child Nutrition Reauthorization right around the corner, making your voice heard is more important than ever!

• Learn more about the landmark study, Hunger in America 2010.
• Find out how hunger is impacting your community.
• Send a letter to your Members of Congress about Hunger in America 2010.

Want to Learn More?

The Hunger Action Center hosted its first-ever Virtual Town Hall on Friday, February 12. Over 1,400 advocates joined Feeding America CEO Vicki Escarra and actor David Arquette for an in-depth conversation about Hunger in America 2010, their commitment to our issue, and how you can help.

If you missed it, click here to listen to the call in its entirety.