Mayoka Urges Anti-Hunger Efforts

Councilman Mark Mayoka is pushing efforts to feed the hungry through  "a friendly-food collecting competition" in school districts and highlighting the efforts of volunteers.

Mayoka and Town Supervisor Frank Petrone co-sponsored a resolution designating September as Hunger Action Month.

The school district competition starts Tuesday and ends Oct. 10. Students will be invited to collect as many non-perishable food items as they can. All winners will be recognized for their efforts. 

Many volunteers who work at food pantries will be honored for their efforts at a Town Hall ceremony at 2 p.m. Sept. 17.

Mayoka has developed a list and map of food pantries on his town page.

"The goal of Hunger Action Month is to mobilize the public to act on behalf of Feeding America and our food bank network," Mayoka said. "It is our opportunity to create a movement throughout September that has a real and lasting impact on our mission to help end hunger in our communities. Whether it’s by advocating and raising awareness, making donations or volunteering, individuals can find the way that’s right for them to make a difference."

A study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that more than 50 million Americans, including nearly 17 million children are food insecure, meaning they are at risk of hunger.