Food insecurity is related to many issues, including discrimination and unfair social and economic factors. As a result, Black, Latino, Native American and Pacific Islander people are 2-3 times more likely than white people to face hunger. By working with all communities to ensure specific needs are met, everyone has a greater opportunity to thrive - including hopeful kids and future engineers like Elijah.

The unique barriers impacting communities of color, including Latinos, can make it difficult for people to break cycles of poverty and hunger. This is where food banks and policy change can help. Thomas, who is pursuing his doctorate of occupational therapy, pushed through difficult feelings to seek food assistance to ensure he could continue his education. He is now on his way to the future he envisions for himself and his family.

In Native American and tribal communities, even more people may be facing hunger. This is why it's critical for the Feeding America network to partner directly with communities such as the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming. Both Trish and Jake Hill work full-time to support their family and strive to give their children not only safety, but happiness. A pantry on the reservation is available to them when they need a little extra help affording food.

It's important to not only understand differences in experience - but also differences in food needs for every community. Alyson wants to stay healthy as she gets older and make sure she stays connected to native Hawaiian food. But, it can be challenging to afford locally-grown produce. The food bank she visits connects Hawaiians with produce at farmers markets, ensuring people get the nourishing food they need while rescuing perfectly good excess food.