Help Us “Tackle Hunger” in honor of September 11

Written by: Michigan’s AmeriCorps Team

The Michigan Community Service Commission encourages AmeriCorps programs across the state to "Tackle Hunger" this fall in an effort to support the second-annual September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Programs can get involved by collecting food or monetary donations at a local event this fall or gathering a group of individuals to volunteer at a local Food Bank. September also happens to be Hunger Action Month.

How can programs get involved? Complete the following steps:

(1) Find the relevant instructions for your AmeriCorps program on our website. You may need to reference the Food Bank Council of Michigan's “Food Drive Guide”.

(2) Find your local Food Bank by searching through our contact sheet linked on our website.

(3) Download the relevant flyer available online, fill in the necessary details, and post in public locations.   

(4) Reach out to local media outlets by completing and sharing the linked press release highlighting your efforts.

To participate, please complete the Michigan Community Service Commission's Registration Form and return via fax or email to the Michigan Community Service Commission at (517) 241-3869 or harveyj1@michigan.gov .

According to Feeding America's national study, more than 1.1 million Michigan residents rely on assistance from food banks each year. In Michigan, nearly 200,000 different individuals receive emergency food assistance each week.

The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance is the culmination of an effort originally launched in 2002 by 9/11 family members and support groups. It became officially recognized following the passage of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of April 2009.

Please help recognize and remember the victims and heroes of 9/11 by serving your community and those in need. We hope you will "Tackle Hunger" with us this fall!

Note: Can't coordinate a food drive as part of September 11? Consider planning an opportunity at a later date or preparing a general service project to honor the National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Are you in the Lansing area? The Michigan Community Service Commission is hosting a food drive at our office, located at 1048 Pierpont, Suite 4. We’re requesting donations from Tuesday, September 7 to Friday, September 10. Perhaps you’d like to help us support the Mid-Michigan Food Bank?