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National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

Co-sponsored by: National Coalition for the Homeless and
National Student Campaign Against Hunger & Homelessness

November 15-21, 2009

 

Introduction

Each year, as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, many people take time to consider what they are thankful for, and donate some of their time to those less fortunate.  Every year, in the spirit of Thanksgiving and education, the National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Student Campaign Against Hunger and Homelessness co-sponsor National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, one week prior to Thanksgiving.  During this week, schools, communities and cities throughout the nation endeavor to bring a greater awareness to the issues of hunger and homelessness.  This manual not only serves as a guide to evaluate past efforts, but also as a tool to inspire your community to get involved with National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week!

Why Should You Participate?

In order to consider participating in National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, you must first consider why the week is so important.  According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, there are an estimated 3.5 million homeless persons in the United States, and the number is increasing.  Participating in National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week not only raises awareness and promotes ending hunger and homelessness in your community, but also strengthens the national endeavor to end hunger and homelessness.  The struggles faced by those that lack a home are often lonely and certainly difficult.  Bringing attention to the plight of the homeless by participating in this week of awareness may foster greater understanding and solidarity.  Events such as hunger banquets and “One Night Without A Home” help people realize the difficulties that the hungry and the homeless face on a daily basis.  Approach a community leader about participating in National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week; we must work together to eliminate the myth that homelessness is someone else’s problem and embrace the reality that ending homelessness is possible.  

When?

November 15-21, 2009.  Early planning is important.  Begin by enlisting interested individuals, outlining and planning events, and contacting organizations that may be willing to participate and/or offer assistance.  The more time you spend brainstorming, planning, and organizing now, the better your week will go in November.  If this will be your first time participating in National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, remember that you do not need an event for each day.  It might be better to choose one or two events that will be well-planned, focused and vibrant.  Hunger and homelessness cannot be eliminated in a week, but a creative, dedicated, and timely effort will contribute greatly to the national endeavor.

How?

First things first, you need a team.  A small, dedicated group of people can create the main planning team, but you will definitely need a larger support system, and you must always be recruiting people by creating an interest in the issues of hunger and homelessness, as well as an interest in the events that you are planning.  Most likely you already know people that will be interested in participating, but never be afraid to promote it to other individuals and ask for their assistance.  Some people may surprise you.  Consider any community that you may be involved with.  Even if you have not been active in a particular community, take the initiative to assume a leadership role.  Consider any groups that may already be interested in hunger and homelessness issues/programs.  It is imperative not only to promote interest, but also to consider all feedback.  Discuss the events that you are planning and be open to changes and new ideas.

It is immensely important to know the community that you are working with: children, the elderly, college students, etc., so as to create the events accordingly.  After establishing a team, it is important to decide on the logistics as soon as possible.  Here is a sample checklist of some, but not all, questions that you will need to answer:
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