Local non-profits fight hunger during COVID-19

Millions of Children and families living in America face hunger and food insecurity every day.

“So as a result of the pandemic, it is now estimated that one in six Americans will be facing hunger, and so that’s kind of a sobering statistic,” said Gracie Sloan, who is the Marketing and Events Coordinator at RIFA in Jackson.

Even while hunger is an issue nationwide, food banks in several cities are closed, but RIFA remains open giving to those in need.

“Thankfully, we have not had to close our doors or anything like that; the community has been so generous in providing for us still,” said Sloan.

However, the pandemic decreases the amount of food that is available for distribution at RIFA. As many food drive events are canceled, the faith-based organization was lucky enough to receive generous individuals’ donations.

“RIFA, would not be able to function, without our generous volunteers, donors, people just dropping off donations on their way from work or from wherever they may be. They’re the reason we are able to stay here,” said Sloan.

I also spoke to the program manager at the salvation army, and the nonprofit continues to fight poverty every day amid COVID-19.

“We order from mid-south food banks. We put in pretty large orders, and they work well, bring their food trucks here, and unload them. anyone that comes in and needs emergency food, we provide it for them.”

Both organizations altered their distribution methods to reduce the spread of COVID-19. RIFA’s soup kitchen is closed, so to-go meals are prepared, and at the salvation, army staff members prepare food boxes for families.