Op-Ed: Taking Action Against Food Insecurity: A Growing Crisis

By: Trent Hein 

Today, more than 34 million Americans, including 9 million children, live in households experiencing hunger. The combined effects of inflation, stagnant wages, and the pandemic’s trailing impact have created a perfect storm, leading to an unprecedented demand for food assistance. It’s sometimes convenient to think this problem is happening “elsewhere in the  U.S.” Unfortunately, nothing could be further from the truth: in Boulder County, an estimated 34,460 individuals are currently food insecure. 

This issue is not limited to those without housing. Families who never thought they’d need help turn to food pantries to put meals on the table. Seniors on fixed incomes, parents working multiple jobs, and children struggling to focus in school because of hunger are realities we can no longer ignore. This is not just a temporary crisis; it’s a systemic issue that requires ongoing attention and action. 

The good news? You can make a difference. Every one of us has the power to help alleviate hunger. By supporting our local food pantries and anti-hunger organizations, like Harvest of  Hope and Sister Carmen Community Center, we can ensure that those in need receive nutritious meals. Even small donations can have a large impact. If you can, consider joining me in donating (funds or food), volunteering your time, or joining the conversation about hunger in our community. Many organizations are in desperate need of volunteers to help sort food, distribute meals, and provide vital support. 

Food insecurity is a solvable problem, but it requires us to come together as a community. Let’s rise to the occasion and show that no one should go hungry when we have the power to make a difference. Together, we can fight hunger — one donation, one volunteer hour at a time. 

About the contributor: Trent R. Hein is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Rule4. Trent is recognized as one of the world’s leading experts in infrastructure cybersecurity and automation.