Communities Come Together to End Hunger

Hunger and poverty are problems that impact communities around the world. Locally, here in the Quad Cities, we know the struggle. We see it around us, and know the work of the community to end it. Nationally and globally, hunger and poverty are also a problem. Every night, 1 in 7 people in the world go to bed hungry. In the United States, more than 17 million households, or 14.5 percent of Americans don't know where their next meal may come from.¹

In October, the community is coming together to end hunger both locally and globally. Starting with churches in the community, and including local businesses, schools, and the entire community, the 43rd annual Quad Cities CROP Hunger Walk has been planned for Sunday, October 5th at 2:00 p.m. Our walk, which is the only bi-state CROP Hunger Walk in the nation, will raise funds to go toward hunger alleviation efforts both in the Quad Cities and through the work of Church World Service around the world. The 600 or so walkers also raise awareness of the struggle families dealing with hunger and poverty face on a daily basis.

"Here in our area, 25 percent of funds raised will go to local hunger programs which make a real impact for families dealing with hunger and poverty in our community. These funds really do make a difference in peoples lives in our community," said Rick Martin, coordinator of the Quad Cities CROP Hunger walk.

"The money and awareness raised by the more than 70 CROP Hunger Walks across Iowa make a huge difference in the lives of people around the world," said Jordan Bles, Church World Service Assistant Field Director for the Iowa Region. "$110 raised is the equivilant of an emergency food package - locally purchased and culturally appropriate enough for a family of five for one month. $300 equals 10 meters of a shallow borehole well for a community desperate for clean, safe water and sustainable food security."

Everyone is invited to participate, and play a part in ending hunger both in the Quad Cities area and around the world. For more information, please contact Rick Martin (qccrophungerwalk@gmail.com).