Second Harvest responds to parent companies high ranking

Key Takeaways:

• Feeding America was ranked Number One on Forbes’ Top 100 Charities list.
• Second Harvest Community Food Bank serves 18 counties and about 40,000 individuals.
• One in seven individuals nationwide faces food insecurity.
• Despite recognition, Second Harvest emphasizes that the fight against hunger continues.
• The Feeding America network translates to about six billion meals provided to address food insecurity.

Feeding America’s Top Ranking Reflects Local Efforts

Feeding America has been ranked Number One among Forbes’ Top 100 Charities, a recognition that underscores the significant efforts of its member organizations like the Second Harvest Community Food Bank in St. Joseph.

Impact on Second Harvest Community Food Bank

The prestigious ranking shines a spotlight on Second Harvest’s dedication to addressing food insecurity across 18 counties, serving approximately 40,000 individuals. Chad Higdon, Executive Director of Second Harvest, views the recognition as both an honor and a motivator to continue their vital work.

“The Fight Against Hunger Isn’t Over”

“Across the country, about one in seven individuals are facing food insecurity,” Higdon said. “We’ve been on several Feeding America committees, always looking at strategies to promote the cause and advocate for food-insecure families and individuals.”

Despite the organization’s achievements, Higdon emphasizes that the battle against hunger persists. “It’s going to help us plan better and look at the food that we’re bringing in and make sure that we’re doing the best we can to serve the 18 counties and communities here in Northwest Missouri, and in Northeast Kansas,” he stated.

Translating Recognition into Action

The Feeding America network’s top placement translates to substantial impact—approximately six billion meals provided to those in need. “It translates, really, to about six billion meals through the Feeding America network trying to address that issue,” Higdon noted.

Looking Ahead

Second Harvest continues to expand its capabilities, including the anticipated opening of a cold storage unit later this year. Higdon believes that the Forbes ranking not only validates their efforts but also highlights the urgency of combating food insecurity in their region. “This placement emphasizes all the hard work that goes into eliminating food insecurity in the counties we serve,” he said.

A Call to Continue the Mission

While the recognition is a milestone, Second Harvest remains focused on the road ahead. “The work isn’t done,” Higdon affirmed, stressing the ongoing need for community support and involvement to ensure that no one in their service area goes hungry.