Alaska kicks off Feds Feed Families

ANCHORAGE — USDA-Rural Development is joining federal agencies nationwide in this year’s Feds Feed Families food drive.

“The Feds Feed Families program for 2012 is now under way across the nation,” said Jim Nordlund, USDA-RD director for Alaska. “While so many Alaskans are enjoying the summer season, we know so many are hungry and need the help and generosity of community. Food banks across the state of Alaska and around the country face critical shortages. Sadly, it’s just as summer begins and children are left without school nutrition programs.”

Like many agencies, USDA-RD is also concerned that older Alaskans, those who are homeless and others less fortunate may likewise face hunger. Many of these groups live at or below the poverty level with little or no support mechanism, which compounds the issue of going hungry. Old or young, hunger and lack of a balanced diet can lead to poor health and add to an already overburdened heath care system.

“Last year, our federal workforce collected a mind-blowing 8 million pounds of food and non-perishable items nationwide; nearly two and a half tons came from donations in Alaska to food banks around the state,” Nordlund said. “This year, we will continue to support our neighbors, families and communities across the nation and here at home in Alaska.”

Drop donations off at the local USDA service agency office at 800 W. Evergreen, Suite 201, Palmer, or contact Cynthia Jackson at 761-7723. For more information, visit fedsfeedfamilies.gov.