Annually, the nation comes together to bring awareness and support to the challenges of hunger and homelessness that many of the population struggle with. As the week before Thanksgiving approaches, this coming November 11th – 18th, communities nationwide will collaborate to host events, volunteer, and donate to these issues.
In 1975, Villanova University established this awareness week for hunger and homelessness. Since then, more than 700 colleges, high schools, and groups nationwide have helped participate in this event. The two sponsors are the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger & Homelessness, which help make this annual week occur. Along with the two sponsors, multiple nonprofit organizations support this awareness week, including HomeFront, Compassion It, Student PIRGs, Challah for Hunger, CSH, Feeding America, The Campus Kitchens Project, and more.
Found on HHWEEK.ORG, there is a way to find local events to get involved and register to host one’s own events. Different schools or community groups will host particular activities to bring attention to hunger and homelessness throughout their cities. Individuals can also help support by making online donations. Specifically in Orange County, through United Way, there are ways to get involved and register for specific events. Beginning on November 8th, there will be various community chat series or webinars regarding homelessness, housing, and mental health, which individuals can register for online.
Here at StandUp for Kids, even though our primary mission is to support homeless youth individually, our youth greatly benefit from supplying basic needs: donations, food or clothing drives, and more. We ask that all get involved with Orange County’s part with Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week this November 11 – 18.