Ohio Valley Politics

Zack Space’s office sent out a column from Rep. Space today about his recent experience working in a foodbank. You can read it after the jump.

Column: The Hunger Crisis Hits Home

- Food Banks in Desperate Need of Donations -

I recently had the privilege to participate in the “Hunger Knows No Holiday” tour organized by the Ohio Association of Second Harvest Foodbanks.  Those visits to foodbanks in Southern Ohio were an overwhelmingly rewarding and sadly eye-opening experience.  During my time in Logan and Wellston, I met people from all walks of life who ended up in lines at the foodbanks for a number of different reasons.  But no matter what their circumstances, they were all hard-working, dedicated Ohioans who would do anything to earn a decent wage.

The sad reality is that Ohio’s manufacturing-based economy is being left behind by unfair trade practices.  Our jobs have been shipped overseas and companies continue to close up shop.  Times are tough for the residents of Southeastern Ohio.

According to a recent study, 12.7% of Ohioans in the last year lacked sufficient resources to put food on their tables.  This is nearly a 2% increase over the previous year.  The cost of housing, healthcare, gasoline, utilities, and food has placed an unbearable strain on many budgets.  I believe it is simply unacceptable that there are children who have to go to bed hungry because their parents cannot afford to purchase enough food. 

During my time helping to stock shelves and load cars for those needing supplies, I met people who arrived in the middle of the night to secure a place in line.  Then, they slept in their freezing cold car just to make sure they get the food supplies that we take for granted.  I heard the story of a mother who got her daughter up at 3:00 am to drive to the location and slept in the car until they could get their food before driving the daughter to school.  I heard time and again how these folks were trying to work and couldn’t get enough hours or couldn’t find a job at all. 

Helping out these good people was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had as a Congressman.  But it is sad that our economic situation requires these foodbanks to exist.  We were pleased to announce recently that ABC Manufacturing is moving into Morgan County, which will bring 200 new jobs into the area.  That is a step in the right direction.  Hopefully with a positive outlook, creativity, and proper investment in our infrastructure and economy, we can continue to bring more good news to the 18^th Congressional District.

While it is easy to think about charity and hunger issues at this time of year, we must remember that this is not a seasonal problem.  We should all do our part through donations of money, food, or time to help make sure those who are less fortunate have the resources necessary to remain healthy and happy. 

Congressman Zack Space