Extend God’s grace by helping hunger programs

We have so much to be thankful for in our Central Florida community. Here, people of all faiths, and no faith but real compassion, care for those who are disadvantaged and underserved. Motivated by our common sense of humanity and morality, we see to it that basic needs like hunger are addressed, especially for children. As a Christian, I am compelled by both scripture and the teachings of Jesus Christ to advocate for programs aimed at alleviating hunger. Our faith calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and addressing hunger is a most tangible expression of this love.

As in every community in our country, people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families. Yet hunger exists everywhere in the United States of America. Nearly 34 million people, including more than 9 million children, face hunger continually. Food banks and faithbased pantries, including our own Second Harvest, and Harvest Time International, do all they can to support our neighbors in need. In addition, many effective nonprofit organizations like the Christian Service Center, as well as local congregational pantries in churches and synagogues and mosques, serve so many individuals and families in need. But faith-based institutions also need a helping hand — and lawmakers should live up to their calling in helping those who need food assistance.

The farm bill is bipartisan federal legislation that governs many nutrition and agriculture programs and it is up for renewal in 2023. This legislation allocates funding for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that help bridge food gaps for millions of families and individuals facing food insecurity in our community and across the country. It is essential that Congress acts swiftly to further resource these programs so that local pantries can continue assisting the most vulnerable.

Food assistance programs too often carry shame and stigma for those who need them, but we know that all people are of ultimate value and dignity. Most people can’t even imagine what experiencing food insecurity is like, but if they saw it for themselves, they would immediately want to help. In my work, among other pastors, religious leaders, and community advocates for the vulnerable, I have seen so many people given new hope by not having to worry if they will be able to eat or to feed their families the next day. When people are well-nourished, they can lead healthier, more productive lives. Expanding hunger relief programs not only meets an immediate need but also strengthens the fabric of our communities, leading to a more just and prosperous society. Those of us who care for “the least of these,” especially for the children involved, know we are doing the right thing.

Following the dictates of both our consciences and our faith, we will advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of the most vulnerable. We must use our voices to ensure that our government continues to invest in programs that combat hunger. Proverbs 31:8-9 calls us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” Advocating for hunger relief programs is a way to follow the Bible’s directives, and to know we have done some good that really matters.

Expanding and extending hunger relief programs is not mainly a matter of politics but of public policy that is good for us all.

It is also a matter of faith and compassion. Please help me call on Representatives Soto, Frost, and Webster, and all in Congress to reauthorize a strong 2023 Farm Bill. It is a way for believers to put our faith into action and follow the example of Jesus, and also for all good citizens to treat our neighbors as persons of equal worth. By doing so, we will be building a stronger community rooted in the principles of dignity, justice and mercy.

Following the dictates of both our consciences and our faith, we will advocate for policies that prioritize the wellbeing of the most vulnerable. We must use our voices to ensure that our government continues to invest in programs that combat hunger.

Dr. Joel C. Hunter is pastor of Community Benefit at Action Church in Maitland.