Giving Back and Rising Up Against Hunger on the National Day of Service

The National Day of Service, held annually on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is a time for Americans to come together and give back to their communities. This year, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) and other organizations across the country are focusing their efforts on combating hunger and food insecurity. By organizing events and volunteering their time, these groups are making a significant impact on the lives of those in need.



According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 34 million people in the United States suffer from food insecurity, with 9 million children not knowing when they’ll eat next. The GFWC’s National Day of Service campaign aims to raise awareness of this pressing issue and mobilize volunteers to aid relief efforts. In 2023, GFWC clubwomen collected 145,506 pounds of nonperishable food, recorded more than 20,000 volunteer hours, collected $138,415 in monetary donations, and contributed to the preparation of 121,386 meals.

The GFWC’s efforts are part of a broader trend of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives focused on hunger relief. Companies like Nestlé and FedEx have also been actively involved in combating hunger and food insecurity. Nestlé employees united with Feeding America® to combat hunger on a nationwide day of service, while FedEx team members have been supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and youth groups in Memphis.

FedEx’s commitment to supporting civil rights museums and MLK Day festivities also contributes to its efforts in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). By sponsoring free admission at civil rights museums across the south and organizing events like the National Day of Service, FedEx helps to preserve and educate about civil rights history, celebrate and honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, and foster a culture of inclusion.

In conclusion, the National Day of Service is an opportunity for Americans to come together and give back to their communities, particularly in the fight against hunger and food insecurity. Organizations like the GFWC, Nestlé, and FedEx are leading the way in mobilizing volunteers and raising awareness of this critical issue. By working together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those in need and create a more equitable and just society.