Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week: Why It Matters and How You Can Help
As the holiday season approaches, it’s an important time to reflect on gratitude and extend support to those in need. Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week (HHAW), held annually in November, shines a spotlight on the dual crises of hunger and homelessness while encouraging individuals and communities to take action. This year’s event runs from November 17–23, 2024, with organizations across the U.S., including more than 700 community groups, hosting educational, service, and advocacy events
(Sources: Website: Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week | About Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week).
At High Expectation Development Corporation (HEDC), we are proud to align with the values of HHAW, emphasizing the need to address the root causes of poverty while supporting individuals on their journey toward self-sufficiency. Let’s explore why this week is vital and how you can get involved.
The State of Hunger and Homelessness in the U.S.
Hunger and homelessness remain pervasive issues in the United States:
- 580,000 Americans experience homelessness on any given night.
- Over 37.2 million people live below the poverty line.
- 1 in 6 children live in poverty, putting them at risk of food insecurity and homelessness. (Sources: Website: Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week | About Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week)
In regions like Southern California, the challenges are even more pronounced, with rising housing costs and limited shelter space driving homelessness rates higher in counties like Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino.
The Goals of Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week
Founded in 1975 by students at Villanova University, HHAW is designed to:
- Educate the public about the realities of poverty.
- Promote volunteerism and build local support networks.
- Encourage advocacy for systemic solutions to hunger and homelessness.
During this week, organizations host a wide range of events, from food drives and fundraisers to community discussions and educational panels, helping to generate awareness and foster change. (Sources: Website: Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week | About Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week).
How HEDC Supports the Mission of HHAW
At HEDC, we tackle hunger and homelessness year-round through targeted programs:
- Homelessness Housing Support: Providing rapid rehousing and transitional housing to individuals and families.
- Meal Programs: Ensuring that those in our care have access to nutritious meals.
- Self-Sufficiency Workshops: Equipping individuals with job training, financial literacy, and life skills to rebuild their independence.
By aligning with the core values of HHAW, HEDC seeks to not only provide immediate relief but also empower individuals to achieve long-term stability.
How You Can Participate
- Volunteer with HEDC: Help us prepare meals, assist with workshops, or organize donation drives.
Get Involved → - Make a Donation: Your financial contributions enable us to expand housing and meal programs for those in need.
Donate Now → - Spread Awareness: Share information about HHAW and HEDC’s programs on social media to inspire others to take action.
A Call to Action
Hunger and homelessness are solvable crises, but it takes a collective effort. This Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, join us in making a difference by supporting our programs, volunteering your time, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the basic necessities of food, shelter, and dignity.
Learn more about HHAW and its impact at HHAW.org
