How hungry are Bostonians?

The U.S. Conference of Mayors recently released their annual "Hunger and Homelessness Survey" that outlines responses from 23 cities across the country regarding the level of hunger and homelessness experienced by their citizens. This report provides critical information about the scope of the problem, and paints a startling picture of how many of our neighbors struggle day to day.

The report suggests that the need for food assistance has increased in Boston over the last year, particularly among families with children and the elderly. The city has responded with several initiatives to bring greater housing and food security to these at-risk populations. For example, United Way serves on the Steering Committee of the Boston Homelessness Prevention Clearinghouse, which is working to help households at-risk of losing their housing by connecting them to critical resources such as public benefits and case management.

I encourage everyone to take a look at the realities of poverty through this report, and consider today, on this cold December day, the decisions families must make between heat, food, and rent. I applaud the City of Boston, and Mayor Menino for their commitment to low-income individuals and families. We must encourage all local, state, and federal agencies - as well and the private and nonprofit sectors - to support such programs. It is immoral to allow anyone to go hungry or spend one night out in the cold.