How to get ready for election day: hunger edition

As we head to the polls in November there's one issue that is more critical now than ever: the alarming number of people facing hunger in America. How we vote in November will have a significant impact on whether our neighbors who need a little extra help right now can access the food they need.

Hunger is a nonpartisan issue, and as a nonprofit organization, Feeding America does not support one candidate or another. However, we do strongly believe in the power of voting and that you should keep hunger in mind when you cast your ballot in 2020.

Here’s our guide to getting ready to vote:

1. Pledge to vote! 

This Election Day, your vote can help decide the future of crucial programs that help provide food for our neighbors across the country. Ensure your voice is heard and that ending hunger is a priority for lawmakers. Sign our pledge to vote now!

2. Research your candidate’s stances on hunger 

It may be hard to know which policies and programs can help people experiencing hunger in America. If you want to know if your candidate is anti-hunger, ask the following questions: 

Does the candidate support strengthening our nation’s food assistance programs?

Federal food assistance programs like school meals and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps, provide millions of people with extra support. In fact, for every meal the Feeding America network provides, food stamps provide nine. 

But these programs are only as strong as the support they receive from our elected officials. With more people needing help, it’s incredibly important for these programs to remain strong and well-funded. Make sure you know if your candidate supports funding these programs and if they support requirements that may prevent people from getting the help they need.

Does the candidate support policies that increase food and funding for food banks?

Food banks have been a lifeline to many during the coronavirus pandemic. As more people turn to food banks than ever before, those vital organizations need more resources to ensure they’re meeting the increased need. Check to see where your candidate stands on The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) - the federal program that provides fresh and healthy foods from farms to people in need through food banks.

3. Have a plan for how you’re going to vote

Whether you’re going to vote in person or mail in your ballot, it’s important to know when and where you’re voting. Start by making a plan with these four steps:

• Make sure you’re registered to vote 
• If you’re voting by mail, send in your ballot right away or look up where to drop it off 
• If you’re voting in person, look up your polling place  and whether you need to bring an ID 
• Learn about your voting rights