Hunger Action Ambassadors Advocating for Food Insecurity Relief in Louisiana

Feeding Louisiana's Hunger Action Ambassadors program, a new statewide network of community leaders committed to turning concern about hunger into sustained, informed action, is off to a great start.

Advocacy is most effective when decision-makers hear directly from the people closest to the issue: constituents, neighbors, caregivers, veterans, students, faith leaders, business owners, farmers, and volunteers. Over six months, participants will attain the knowledge and skills needed to become effective advocates for hunger relief across the state.

The Hunger Action Ambassadors have completed two virtual training segments to date. The first session focused on food insecurity: what it is, why it occurs, how it is measured, and why using accurate data and intentional language matters when talking about hunger in our communities. The second session explored how federal food assistance programs are authorized and funded, walking participants through the role of the Farm Bill and the Child Nutrition Act in shaping the programs that millions of Americans and thousands of Louisianans rely on every day. They also learned how Feeding America, Feeding Louisiana, and the five regional food banks interact with these programs.

Several Hunger Action Ambassadors attended the Louisiana Anti-Hunger Coalition's Day at the Capitol in May, where they gained firsthand experience engaging with legislators and policy stakeholders on food insecurity.

Looking ahead, the program's next session will focus on Policy 101 and practical advocacy skills, including how to effectively communicate with stage agency heads and legislators through written correspondence, public engagements, and one-on-one meetings. Ambassadors will leave equipped with the tools and confidence to make their voices heard on behalf of their communities.

To learn more about Hunger Action Ambassadors or to partner with Feeding Louisiana to strengthen civic engagement around hunger relief, please contact Jenée Slocum, Director of Strategic Initiatives.