Hunger has an impact far beyond the physical and personal costs to an individual or a family. What is the economic impact of hunger in our community? What is the cost of a hungry child who cannot learn because he or she is hungry? What is the cost of a worker who isn't productive because he or she hasn't eaten today?

 Over the past few years, the "faces of hunger" across southern Colorado have changed significantly and may surprise you. Now, more than ever, the people who need your help are:

Employed: 40.8% of those receiving emergency food assistance are working families.

Having to Make Difficult Decisions: 57.3% of clients report having to choose between paying for food and paying for utilities. 39.6% have to choose between paying for food and paying for medicine or medical care.

Children: 44.8% of the members of the households served by Care and Share Food Bank are children under 18 years of age.

Elderly: 4.1% of people needing emergency food assistance are age 65 or older.

Female: 56.4% of people seeking emergency food assistance are female.

 Reducing hunger in southern Colorado is a good, long-term community investment. It more than pays for itself by reducing long-term social costs. Children who are well-fed and nourished do well in school, and are less prone to suffer health problems. Well-nourished families create better workers, engaged voters and active consumers - a foundation for a vibrant community.