Illinois Fighting Hunger event termed a success
<p class="p1">Organizers report that a recent Illini Fighting Hunger event was a huge success.</p><p class="p1">4-H members and other volunteers from Alexander, Johnson, Massac, Pulaski and Union counties gathered at Shawnee Community College near Ullin in early October to assemble meal packets. </p><p class="p1">More than 365 volunteers were on hand to help. Organizers said in a news release that the "4-H volunteers did a tremendous job fighting back to end hunger in the Southern Illinois area by packaging 75,816 meals. These meals have a shelf life of three years." </p><p class="p1">A 2013 report published by Feeding America showed that Illinois ranks 33rd in the nation when it comes to the number of children facing food insecurity. </p><p class="p1">It is estimated that one in five children face hunger and food insecurity on a recurring basis. </p><p class="p1">An estimated 643,040 children are living in food-insecure homes in Illinois. This represents 20.8 percent of Illinois young people under the age of 18.</p><p class="p1">Those involved with the local project said that needs in the five area counties are high when it comes to food concerns.</p><p class="p1">Statistics show that 17 percent, or 9,750 people, face food insecurity. The statistics, by county, include:</p><p class="p1">Union County: 15.5 percent, 2,740, of whom 960 are children.</p><p class="p1">Alexander County: 22.4 percent, 1,780, of whom 630 are children.</p><p class="p1">Johnson County: 14.8 percent, 1,870, of whom 550 are children.</p><p class="p1">Massac County: 14.7 percent, 2,250, of whom 830 are children.</p><p class="p1">Pulaski County: 18.4 percent, 1,110, of whom 330 are children.</p><p class="p1">The day at Shawnee Community College was kicked off with pledges, and announcements. </p><p class="p1">Several HCE ladies gathered to serve the volunteers a meal upon completion of their shift. </p><p class="p1">Throughout the day, 4-H members helped to keep track of the meals which had been packaged by filling in a thermometer of progress. </p><p class="p1">Upon completion at Shawnee Community College, the meal packets were distributed to local food pantries and school backpack programs and a few other entities which serve families in need. </p><p class="p1">The 4-H volunteers and staff said they took pride in giving back to the local community, signing a volunteer board and wearing a "Reach Your Destination: Adventures Awaits – That’s 4-H" shirt. </p><p class="p1">In addition to the meal packets, organizers provided recipes so the rice-based meals could be used as a main course. </p><p class="p1">Organizers noted in a news release the Unit 27 project was a very successful one which received media attention "and allowed us to give back and serve the communities we love so dearly. Many sponsors helped us reach our goal of feeding the hungry in Southern Illinois."</p><p class="p1">They added that "one of the most fantastic highlights of the day was that Unit 27 had all 4-H clubs in attendance except one at this event. We are very proud of our 4-H members for stepping up and packaging 75,816 meals."</p><p class="p1">The organizers voiced appreciation to "all our many volunteers."</p><p class="p1">A video post of the Illini Fighting Hunger event reached over 2,525 people.</p>