The Problem with Charitable Food: How to Really Address Food Insecurity
Aug 26, 2021
There are more than 15,000 food banks/pantries in the U.S. distributing emergency meals. That work has never been more needed than during the pandemic. But in reality, most charitable organizations addressing hunger are doing very little to truly solve the long-term issue of hunger and food insecurity.
As someone who has donated to and volunteered to support numerous charitable food organizations over the years, it wasn’t until Natalie joined the staff of the Center for Hunger-Free Communities that she realized how these "philanthropic activities" were more about making herself feel good than about actually addressing food insecurity. In this blog post, she shares what she has learned about the root causes of and possible solutions for food insecurity as well as alternative ways to make an impact on food insecurity as an advocate in your community.
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Unemployment Isn't "Easy"
Jul 29, 2021
Unemployment benefits have been labeled as an easier option than going back to work by many as employers face labor shortages in reopening after COVID-19 layoffs. But depending on unemployment in a time of need is not easy. The system can be complicated and cause harm to those utilizing the benefit. We must change how unemployment is viewed. It is an insurance policy, not a handout.
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A Look at Collective Trauma and Collective Healing
Jul 07, 2021
Trauma-informed care is becoming more of a priority for organizations around the country. Taking this work even further, organizations need to address their staff and clients' collective trauma by creating collective healing spaces that resist re-traumatization and also hold themselves and institutions accountable for harm caused.
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The Price of Trauma
Jun 28, 2021
Intergenerational trauma has long-lasting impacts. Poverty, abuse, and addiction have life-long effects. For most, the cost of trauma is too much to bear. But naming that trauma can lessen that load and put you on the road to healing.
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Widowhood and Trauma
Jun 22, 2021
Losing a spouse is a pain like no other. That is why it is so important to offer resources and support to build the resilience of those who have lost their closest love.
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Reflections on Juneteenth
Jun 17, 2021
Juneteenth is an important holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the U.S. As white allies, how do commemorate the day that represents freedom that is still being fought for?
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What is Resilience?
Jun 04, 2021
Resilience is the ability to bounce back and recover after a traumatic experience. Understanding what it means for you and developing tools to support you in tough times are key to resilience.
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