Blog  |  COVID-19 Relief  |  Policy Watch  |  Stories

Food Bank Fieldnotes: How 3 Food Banks Are Urging Congress to Act to Fight Hunger This August Recess

Here are three great examples of how food banks have engaged lawmakers on the issue of hunger this August recess.

August 22, 2021 | By

Every August, our lawmakers on Capitol Hill go on August recess, which is less of a summer break for legislators and more of a work period during which senators and representatives return to their home states and districts. 

August recess provides the perfect opportunity for the Feeding America network of 200 food banks and 60,000 partner pantries and meal programs to invite members of Congress and their staff to events to witness firsthand the powerful impact that food banks are making in communities across the nation. Food bank site visits, in-district meetings, community events, and other activities are effective ways for legislators to learn more about food banks and the people we serve, making lasting impressions that can help propel important anti-hunger policies forward.  

Since the beginning of this year’s recess period, Feeding America food banks have hosted events with members of Congress to help uplift how hunger impacts their constituents and drive home why Congress must support legislation that will strengthen federal nutrition programs to put more food on more tables.  

Here are three great examples of how food banks have engaged lawmakers on the issue of hunger this August recess.  

1. Second Harvest Heartland (Minnesota) 

Second Harvest Heartland hosted several key decision-makers at their facility, including United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack and Representative Dean Phillips (D-MN).  

2. Los Angeles Regional Food Bank (California) 

Rep. Linda Sánchez (D-CA) sprang into action this August recess, volunteering at a drive-thru food distribution coordinated by the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. 

3. Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano (California) 

All within one week, the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano hosted Representative Mike Thompson (D-CA) at their new warehouse and had the chance to connect with Representative Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA) to elevate their anti-hunger priorities.  

Check out Feeding America’s COVID-19 recovery priorities for ensuring fewer families go to bed hungry, and explore how you can take action today to support our neighbors without enough to eat.   

In August, lawmakers on the Hill go on August recess — a work period during which senators & representatives return to their home states. Explore 3 examples of how @FeedingAmerica food banks have engaged lawmakers on hunger this August recess w/ @hunger. bit.ly/3825WSy