Kane County Marks Hunger Action Month, Highlights Food Resources

KANE COUNTY, IL — The Kane County Health Department and community partners are recognizing September as Hunger Action Month by raising awareness about food insecurity and connecting residents with local food assistance resources.

The county health department is working with University of Illinois Extension, the Kane County Hunger Relief Network and organizations throughout the county as part of the nationwide campaign, according to the health department. Hunger Action Month encourages communities to address food insecurity through education, advocacy, volunteering and support for local food assistance programs.

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According to Feeding America, 11.1% of Kane County residents and 10.5% of children experienced food insecurity in 2023. Meanwhile, 37.1% of Kane County households fell below the ALICE — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — threshold, indicating that many working families continue to struggle to afford basic necessities, including food.

"Food insecurity affects people in every community, including working families who may be facing rising costs and difficult choices about how to make ends meet," Kane County Health Department Executive Director Michael Isaacson said. "Hunger Action Month is an opportunity for all of us to learn more, share resources, and take action. By working together, we can help ensure that Kane County residents have access to the food they need to thrive."

Throughout September, community partners will share educational information and local food resources through social media, according to a news release. The campaign will address common misconceptions about hunger, highlight people who are most affected by food insecurity and help residents find assistance.

The Kane County Hunger Relief Network, a partnership convened by the Kane County Health Department and University of Illinois Extension, brings together food pantries, hunger relief organizations and other community partners to share resources and strengthen food access efforts. Residents looking for help finding food pantries, meal programs and other assistance can use the Find Food IL online map to locate resources in their area.

Community members can also participate in Hunger Action Month by volunteering at local food pantries, donating food or money, advocating for policies addressing food insecurity and helping spread awareness about hunger throughout September.