Hello Fem Dems,
Happy November! This month I invite you all to reflect on something so essential that everyone needs it: Food!
In a world with an abundance of resources, wealth, and technology, millions of people are still going hungry. Food insecurity affects our families, friends, and neighbors of all ages, especially children, college students, seniors, and unhoused populations. People may skip one or more meals, have an empty refrigerator at home, or have to choose between paying bills or buying groceries.
Food insecurity, however, means more than just the absence of food. A lack of consistent access to nutritional, affordable, and cultural, (not to mention organic and ethical and allergen-free), foods is also a type of food insecurity. Have you ever wondered why fast-food restaurants are on every street corner in "food desert" neighborhoods, but not in affluent suburban neighborhoods? It's not a matter of taste, but a matter of means. And the truth is, regardless of financial means, everyone deserves the right to eat good food when they're hungry.
We all have the power to do something about food insecurity. We can support our local food pantries, food banks, and community gardens. We can advocate for policies that make food accessible, eliminate food deserts, and lead to more sustainable agriculture. We can educate ourselves on food waste and food justice.
This month, for example, Fem Dems partnered with Feed Sacramento Homeless to help feed 200 families in need of a hot meal. At our event tomorrow, we will be collecting non-perishable items for the Stanford Settlement Neighborhood Center. We have also seen many organizations and individuals collect and distribute items for those who have seen a decrease in their snap benefits. We are so thankful for the community members who have stepped up, provided items and volunteered their time.
Food is fuel. It’s culture, dignity, it’s literally what gives us life. And in a society where everyone can eat, everyone can thrive.
In Community,
Alice Montes-Christopher
President of Fem Dems of Sacramento