4 ways to make a difference on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service

A man handing a boy a box of food.
January 13, 2022
by Paul Morello

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spent his entire life serving others. At a time when more than 38 million people in the United States are at risk of hunger, there are numerous ways you can honor his legacy and make a difference in your community. Here are our top four ways to make a difference this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.

1. Volunteer at your local food bank

Dr. King said, “Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve…You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” Unleash that greatness by volunteering at your local food bank to honor Dr. King’s legacy. Find your local food bank and learn what opportunities they have available. But remember, the MLK Day of Service is a Federal holiday so some food banks may be closed. But, they’d be happy to have you any day of the year.

2. Learn why we must focus on equity to end hunger 

We know hunger exists today in part because of systemic issues that prevent people – especially Black, Native American, and Latino communities – from accessing the food they need. If we focus on equity, and elevate the voices of our neighbors facing hunger, everyone benefits. Learn more about how Feeding America is working to ensure everyone has access to the food they need from Feeding America’s Chief Equity Officer, Ami McReynolds, and Chief Movement Officer, Dr. Ruth Jones Nichols.

3. Register to vote

How we vote has a significant impact on whether our neighbors facing hunger will have enough access to food. Ensure ending hunger is a priority for lawmakers and help decide the future of crucial programs that help provide food for our neighbors by registering to vote. Registering is easy. First, start by checking your registration status

4. Follow your food bank on social media

Want to learn more about how your local food bank is serving your neighbors, or what hunger looks like in your community? Follow your local food bank on social media. Often, food banks also post information about what their current needs are – from food drives to special volunteer opportunities and more. By engaging with them on social media and learning about the issue, you’re taking a step towards ending hunger.