In March, the Biden-Harris administration kicked off an ambitious challenge called “The White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities.” This challenge is a continuation of President Biden’s call to action to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension by 2030. The United States previously has seen monumental shifts in legislation regarding food safety and the passing of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act.
Who is involved?
Again, being an ambitious goal, the administration was aware that the goal to end hunger in the United States ultimately would require help beyond the federal level. After finalizing a plan with five distinct pillars, many private and public sectors made commitments totaling $8 billion dollars of support over the next seven years.
In September of 2022, the current presidential administration hosted the first White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in over 50 years. This conference involved an impressive lineup of speakers and moderators to inspire and set the groundwork for change. Speakers ranged in expertise as anti-hunger and nutrition advocates, food companies, stakeholders from the healthcare community on all levels, and tribal governments to create an action strategy to support all Americans of diverse backgrounds.
Chobani
Chobani launched an initiative called Food Access in Reach (F.A.I.R.). They are encouraging businesses of all sizes and kinds to essentially sponsor or “adopt-a-school,” pledging to make it food- and nutrition-secure.
DoorDash
DoorDash partnered with 18 cities throughout the U.S. to eliminate barriers to hunger that affect how food is transported throughout the country. They plan on aiding with $1 million throughout their organization with DoorDash Community credits for free delivery for community-based organizations working to eliminate hunger. Additionally, they are looking to incorporate their 2018 initiative Project DASH into the DoorDash platform to improve charitable food delivery further.
Google shared in charitable efforts by adding features to help Americans find specific and local public food benefits like SNAP through the search engine. Additionally, Americans who already are eligible and use Medicare and Medicaid will be able to book appointments directly through Google.com.
Publix
Chain grocery store Publix has committed to donating $3.85 million to 22 different Feeding America food banks to create free mobile food pantries that will be full of local produce.
The Year 2030
The goal of the challenge is to ultimately end hunger and diet-related diseases like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension that are prevalent in the United States. The hope would be that the disparities brought about after the pandemic related to food would greatly diminish. Additionally, consumers would find more support for healthier food products in their day-to-day lives.
How to get involved
The strategy calls for the involvement of corporations large and small but what about us as individuals?
1. Stay informed
One of the easiest ways to learn how to help is to sign up for email updates.
2. Join the challenge
If you want to take a step further, consider volunteering in your community. Other ideas presented in the White House’s Toolkit include hosting discussions, volunteer events, or group physical activity events. Additionally, supporting your local food banks with donations to help keep shelves full of nutritious options.
3. Share your story
The conference in March was centered around the voices of advocates, but your voice should be heard too. If you have a story about the impact of hunger or an idea, share your ideas in the following form.