2nd Annual March On Hunger

BOISE, IDAHO – Members and friends of United Methodist churches across the region will spend the month of April raising awareness of hunger and collecting food to share with people in need.

During the second annual March on Hunger, United Methodist churches will serve as collection points for food and monetary donations for the Idaho Food Bank and local food pantries. The month-long movement will begin March 31 – Easter Sunday – as the churches focus on loving their neighbors by feeding the hungry as Jesus commanded his followers to do.

Participants will make a one-mile march from the Cathedral of the Rockies to a hunger awareness rally at the Statehouse in Boise on Saturday, April 6. They will make a prayer walk around the capitol, and donations will be accepted.

Workshops to discuss justice issues related to problem of hunger being planned to help raise awareness of the causes and solutions for hunger.

“We’re stepping out to make a difference in our community and challenging others to join us in our efforts,” said the Rev. David Thompson, project coordinator and pastor at the United Methodist churches in Emmett and Sweet. “We’re working to increase awareness of the problem of hunger in Idaho and to encourage people of all faiths to participate in solutions to the problem. With all of us working together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who are most in need.”

Thompson noted that nearly one in six Idaho residents – and one in four children – is food insecure, meaning he or she is uncertain about having adequate food. Statistics released last week show that half of Idaho’s schoolchildren are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches.

In addition to donating food or money, people interested in participating can learn of opportunities to be involved longer term in the fight against hunger. Further information on volunteer projects such as community gardens can be found at www.marchonhunger.org.

“United Methodists believe that church is not just a place you go but also an action you take,” said Thompson. “We believe that faith and good works belong together, that faith should inspire service, and that what we believe must be confirmed by what we do. This is one opportunity for us to step out to confirm our beliefs.”

For more information, contact:
The Rev. David Thompson
Cell phone: (208) 866-6821
E-mail: dthomp2420@cableone.net