The first step in solving any problem is to understand it. These resources will help to provide a clear picture of the state of hunger and poverty both locally and nationally.

Hunger & Poverty in Chicago

“Even before this recession, 2.2 million Chicago area residents were struggling in or near poverty, having difficulty finding jobs after getting laid off, experiencing homelessness after losing their house, being held back by low education levels, and finding it next to impossible to save for a brighter future.”

Terpstra, A., Rynell, A., & Roberts, A. (2009). 2009 report on Chicago region poverty. Chicago: Heartland Alliance Mid-America Institute on Poverty.

Download the full report here

Hunger & Poverty in Illinois

“Over 900,000 Illinoisans get food from food pantries each year.”

Terpstra, A., & Rynell, A. (2009). 2009 report on Illinois poverty. Chicago: Heartland
Alliance Mid-America Institute on Poverty.

Download the full report here

Hunger & Poverty in America

Of the 37 million people the Feeding America network serves:
• 70 percent of households have incomes below the federal poverty line.
• The average monthly income for client households is $940.
• 36 percent of households have one or more adults who is working.
• 10 percent of client households are homeless.

Click here to learn about the 2010 Feeding America Hunger Study