As the fall and winter holidays approach, our thoughts often turn to those in need. Local charities frequently hold food drives at this time of year. In keeping with this spirit of giving, the holidays are a good time to think about food security in our Kentucky communities. Food insecurity means that a household has limited or uncertain access to enough safe, nutritious food for an active and healthy life. These households have reduced quality and variety in meals and may have irregular food intake.
Hunger is the most severe level of food insecurity.
It means insufficient or irregular food intake, resulting in periods of hunger, characterized by painful sensations resulting from lack of food. Kentucky is ranked 33 among the states regarding food insecurity. Having assured access to enough food at all times to lead an active, healthy life would define people who are food secure . Gleaning programs can help your community tackle the hunger issue that exists in the United States. Gleaning consists of collecting surplus produce from farmers or shippers and then allocating it through food banks or community-based organizations to those who need food.