Hunger Free BG recently held its first event at The Capitol to shine a light on food insecurity in the community. The evening began with a documentary called “Food, Insecure,” which highlighted the struggles families face to put food on their tables. After the screening, a panel discussion featured local leaders, including city commissioner Carlos Bailey and Charles Dennis from Feeding America Kentucky’s Heartland.
The film follows families grappling with food uncertainty, showcasing not only their challenges but also the resources available to them. This documentary is part of a larger effort by co-producer Dave Miner. His previous film, “The Working Hungry,” illustrated similar themes, and a new documentary, “Hungry to Learn,” will examine food insecurity on college campuses.
Miner noted that over 200 screenings of their films have sparked important conversations around this pressing issue. “We’re really gratified to think that we’re causing good conversations to have,” he said, emphasizing the need for dialogue.
One major topic was the job market. The film showed people juggling multiple jobs yet still struggling to afford food. In response to this, Bailey mentioned efforts to bring in better-paying jobs, noting, “Can we do more? I think we can always do more.”
Hunger Free BG, formed in January, aims to unite local food pantries and focus on specific issues raised in the film. Mary Evans, an attendee, found the film very impactful. “It helped us see where our strengths are, and then areas where we really need to focus our energies,” she said.
It’s crucial to remember that, according to a 2022 Feeding America report, nearly 34 million people in the U.S. faced food insecurity in 2021. This situation has only become more pressing in light of rising living costs and stagnant wages.
The event created a spark for advocacy, inviting everyone to engage. “If you haven’t experienced food insecurity, find a way to know someone who has because, as one woman in the film said, it’ll change your life,” Miner highlighted.
You can learn more about ongoing efforts and how to get involved by visiting Hunger Free BG’s Facebook page.
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