How Hunger Impacts Bodies
Mental Health
We know that hunger impacts the physical body. We’ve seen the results of malnutrition on young and old bodies. But hunger not only impacts physical health but mental health as well.
When someone is constantly worrying about where their next meal is going to come from, this can lead to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
School Performance
Unfortunately, many of the foods that are affordable for at-risk families can leave kids jittery, unfocused, and sick. Foods high in caffeine, sugar, and chemicals impact grades and behavior.
Malnutrition can result in long-term brain issues, which can impact a child’s emotional responses, reactions to stress, learning disabilities, and other medical complications.
Increase Risk of Disease
According to the USDA, there is a strong connection between hunger and chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
Feeding America reports that 58% of the households that receive food from the network have one member with high blood pressure. And 33% have a member with diabetes. The more meals missed, the more these risks rise.
‘ALICE Families and Families Experiencing Poverty
Face Food Insecurity
Asset, Limited Income, Constrained, Employed Ohio families make up 25% of the population.
The rate of food insecurity among children in Medina County is 11.7% or 4,700 children. 
According to Feeding Medina, the food insecurity rate is 10.1% of the total population. That’s roughly 18,010 individuals.
Rise In Food Costs and Food Shipment Delays
In 2020, food banks purchased food for $0.42 per pound. That cost rose to $1.04 per pound in 2021. That’s more than double the cost.
And not only do we continue to see a rise in the number of those in need, but there has also been a 64% decrease in USDA Foods delivered to food banks. And donated food from retailers and restaurants is also on the decline.
This is why Patricia Ann Cargill Charities exists…to continue the fight against hunger in Medina and surrounding counties. You can make a difference by making a donation today. Click here to donate.