SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO—On Monday, September 13, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and County Council presented a proclamation to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank in honor of Hunger Action Month and Day, recognized throughout the month of September and on September 17.
National Hunger Action Month and Day are recognized yearly across the nation to raise awareness and encourage communities to participate in the mission to feed individuals and families facing food insecurity. In support of Hunger Action Month and Day, Executive Shapiro and County Council asked residents to wear orange on Friday, September 17 to help raise awareness for this important issue.
In Summit County, over 90,000 individuals, including over 30,000 children, are food insecure. Executive Shapiro and Council members are committed to combatting hunger in every one of the County’s 31 communities and raising awareness about this important issue. In 2020, the County contributed $467,000 to the Foodbank to help ensure residents do not go hungry.
“No person should have to choose between feeding themselves or their family and paying a bill, but this is the harsh reality for many. I am proud to partner with Council members to raise awareness about food insecurity, and proud to provide financial support to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank year after year,” said Executive Shapiro.
Each year, the Foodbank and its partners distribute millions of pounds of free food and produce, and thousands of Summit County residents volunteer their time and resources to assist residents across Northeast Ohio who face food insecurity.
“Summit County is thankful to have a strong partner in the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. Together, we are working hard to make a difference in the lives of those residents who are most in need. I ask that residents who are able consider donating funds or volunteering their time to help us make a real difference,” said District 5 Councilwoman Veronica Sims.
Councilwoman Sims was also honored at the Council meeting. She was recently named the 2021 Liam Murray Local Food Hero by the Summit Food Coalition in recognition of her work on behalf of the community. She will be honored at the Savor the Summit Local Food Hero Celebration and Fundraiser on Thursday, October 7.
