Washington Service Corps Seeks Help To Combat Food Insecurity

WASHINGTON — Washingtonians are going hungry because of the coronavirus pandemic.

While the economy improved slightly in October, many jobs lost in March remain lost, new restrictions could mean the loss of even more jobs, and all the while thousands of families are struggling to afford food.

To meet the growing need for food, the Washington Service Corps is seeking volunteers to help combat food insecurity caused by the pandemic. The service corps is a part of the federal AmeriCorps program. They've created a team of about 100 members to form the new Washington COVID Response Corps, but they are seeking even more volunteers to help support food banks across the state.

“So many people across the state are struggling with food insecurity and health issues,” said Washington Service Corps Director James Trujillo. “We were made to help during times of crisis and we’re proud to stand alongside our communities and help.”

AmeriCorps members are paid for their work. They also receive health insurance, as well as educational scholarships and childcare for eligible members with children.

There are 624 AmeriCorps members working in Washington currently, of which 94 have volunteered to work in the COVID Response Corps.

“Through their dedicated service helping those most in need, AmeriCorps members make a substantial and tangible difference in our communities — even if it’s over a computer,” said Trujillo.

Those interested in volunteering or learning more can visit the Washington Service Corps website here.

In Washington, one in nine people and one out of every seven children struggles with hunger, according to Feeding America. They estimated it would take a total of $438,026,000 per year to keep people facing hunger in Washington fed.

Related: Millions Made Hungry By Pandemic Could Include Your Neighbor

Patch has partnered with Feeding America to help raise awareness on behalf of the millions of Americans facing hunger. Feeding America, which supports 200 food banks across the country, estimates that in 2020, more than 50 million Americans will not have enough nutritious food to eat due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. This is a Patch social good project; Feeding America receives 100 percent of donations. Find out how you can donate in your community or find a food pantry near you.