June 1st is Hunger Awareness Day - a day to raise awareness of the work of food banks and to remind Canadians that there is hunger in this country. The goal is to inspire Canadians to take action, and the Turkey Farmers of Canada want to remind everyone that you CAN make a difference to those in need.

Every month, close to 800,000 individuals use food banks in Canada because they do not have enough money to make ends meet. Those who turn to food banks include families with children, seniors on fixed incomes, and the working poor. Across the country, over 700 food banks and 3,000 affiliated agencies distribute food or provide meals to support these individuals.
 
“Visiting a food bank has become a necessity for too many Canadians,” says Mark Davies, Chair of the Turkey Farmers of Canada. “We are inviting all Canadians to become personally engaged to help reduce hunger in this country.”
 
Davies points out that this could be as simple as helping out atyour local food bank by donating food, funds or time, joining local Hunger Awareness Day activities and events, and spreading the word in your workplace, faith group or school.
“Working to educate others about the issue of hunger in Canada will go a long way towards breaking down stereotypes,” he says.
 
However you choose to mark Hunger Awareness Day in 2010, your action will be making a difference in the lives of hungry Canadians.
 
For more information, or to find a community food bank in your area, visit www.foodbankscanada.ca.
 
Turkey Farmers of Canada is a proud partner of Food Banks Canada.