Many people do not realize how many working families are struggling to make ends meet. The reality is that more than 25 percent of working families in Colorado do not have enough food to meet their basic needs. More and more families in Colorado are struggling in the tough economy and hunger is becoming a common problem.

But perhaps the most troubling statistic is the fact that the Coloradans most at risk of hunger are babies and children under five, and that this problem is on the rise. According to 2010 Kids Count Colorado, Colorado has the fastest growing rate of childhood poverty in the nation. Between 2000 and 2006 the rate of childhood poverty increased 73 percent in the state.
And finally, while we work to alleviate hunger, it is important to remember that many people who are at risk of hunger often have special nutritional needs.

Ending hunger means improving nutrition in vulnerable communities with the right combination of nutrients and calories needed for a healthy life. This is especially important for pregnant women, seniors, people with chronic health issues or disabilities, and for the healthy development of infants and young children.

So, what can you do? Learning about hunger is the first step to helping end hunger in Colorado. Visit the Hunger Free Colorado website: www.HungerFreeColorado.org.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, the Hunger Free Hotline can help. Callers will receive referrals to all available food and nutrition resources in English and Spanish. The statewide toll-free number is 855-855-4626; Denver Metro is 720-382-2920.

This article was provided to us by Hunger Free Colorado, our partner in addressing the issue of hunger in Colorado.

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