Meet some of the volunteers that give time to help hungry Americans. These individuals -- along with others giving two million hours of time across the Feeding America food bank network -- are committed to helping their neighbors. Together, we are committed to making our communities stronger by making sure everyone has enough food to thrive.
Here are some examples of everyday heroes giving their time during this National Volunteer Appreciation Month and all year.
Jestine volunteers at one of the emergency food pantries at Harvest Hope Food Bank in Columbia, SC. She is 92 years old and has been a faithful volunteer there for the last 15 years. She started volunteering when she learned that a neighbor struggled to get enough to eat.
Ian works at the "Farm to Table" program with Harvesters in downtown Kansas City. He works with farmers to get donations of fresh produce which is so vital to a healthy diet. He understands fully the importance of proper nutrition as he is currently a medical student and committed to better health for all.
Marilee has been volunteering at Feeding the Gulf Coast in Alabama for 9 years. Since retiring from the Space Shuttle Program, she has worked various functions at the food bank from clerical work to maintaining produce coolers.
Dave regularly assists the Community Cupboard Food Pantry which is part of Gleaners Food Bank in Indiana. Not only is he working the shelves and helping people find the food they need, but he is the organizer of a golf outing that has raised almost $10,000 for the community.
You can get involved by volunteering with your local food bank or community feeding program. Take the pledge and contact your local food bank to find out how we can work together.