April is Scouting for Food month

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A focus of Scouting for Food is collecting food high in nutritional value, such as tuna fish, canned beans, peanut butter, 100% juice drinks, canned fruit and high-fiber cereal.  Household products such as toilet paper, soap and toothpaste also are needed, allowing families and individuals to spend more of their household budget on food.

Hunger and food insecurity is a national public health issue and a growing problem in our region.  The U.S. Census reports that 12 percent of Allegheny County residents live below the poverty line; 17 percent of children in the county live in poverty.

For children, hunger is not merely uncomfortable—it is dangerous and can jeopardize their health and normal development.  Research shows that youth who are underfed have poor overall health, their growth can be impeded, and they are more likely to have academic, behavioral and emotional problems.

To give online, click on www.pittsburghfoodbank.org.