Alexandria Unites Against Food Insecurity: Mayor Alyia Gaskins Proclaims Hunger Action Month

Each September communities across the U.S. observe Hunger Action Month. This campaign was first launched in 2008 by Feeding America to raise awareness about food insecurity and encourage collective action.
Page updated on October 9, 2025 at 11:25 AM
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Each September communities across the U.S. observe Hunger Action Month. This campaign was first launched in 2008 by Feeding America to raise awareness about food insecurity and encourage collective action. Last month, Alexandria joined this nationwide effort, shining a light on the urgent need for equitable food access and community solutions. 

Mayor Alyia Gaskins Proclamation (video below)

On September 9, 2025, Mayor Alyia Gaskins, on behalf of the Alexandria City Council, officially declared September as Hunger Action Month in the City of Alexandria. The proclamation emphasized:

  • The importance of access to nutritious food for all people, noting that 44 million people in the U.S., including more than 13 million children, face food insecurity.
  • Local realities, with 8% of Alexandrians (about 12,600 residents) struggling to afford enough food, and nearly 44% of those impacted being ineligible for government assistance due to income thresholds or documentation requirements.
  • The role of community partners like ALIVE!, which represents 50 congregations and serves nearly 5,000 households monthly, distributing over 1 million pounds of food in the past year.
  • The impact of the Capital Area Food Bank, which also distributed more than 1 million pounds of food in Alexandria in the last fiscal year, through 24 active agencies.
  • The leadership of Hunger Free Alexandria (HFA), a coalition of providers, schools, and advocates, in raising awareness and strengthening food security programs.
  • Collaborative strategies across agencies, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, markets, and restaurants to promote food justice, reduce food waste, and expand access. 

Mayor Gaskins’ proclamation called on all Alexandrians to join in the observance of Hunger Action Month and take action to end hunger in the community. 

Food Assistance Resources in Alexandria

During Hunger Action Month, residents were reminded of the network of support available in the city:

  • SNAP Benefits & Matching Programs: SNAP Double Dollar program and WIC/Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition programs.
  • ALIVE! Distributions: weekend food distributions, monthly food hubs, and neighborhood food pop-ups.
  • Local Pantries: such as Historic Christ Church, Grace Episcopal, Oakland Baptist, and others.
  • Prepared Meals & Deliveries: Christ House, Meade Memorial Episcopal Church, Meals on Wheels, and Groceries to Go for seniors.
  • Additional Supports: WIC, school meal programs, and even pet food support from the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. 

Hunger Action Month highlighted that food insecurity is about more than just empty cupboards. It’s about limited access to nutritious and affordable food. Children, older adults, caregivers, and individuals with limited income remain vulnerable. By recognizing Hunger Action Month, Alexandria strengthened the message that access to healthy food is a matter of dignity, equity and community togetherness. While September was a month of focus, the fight against hunger continues year-round. 

Alexandria’s proclamation underscored the need for sustained action. Residents can get involved by donating food or money to local food pantries and organizations, volunteering food distribution centers or delivery programs, spreading awareness by sharing resources such as Alexandria’s Food Directory and supporting farmers markets and programs that increase access to fresh produce. For additional information, visit the DCHS Food Assistance web page.