Food insecurity in our area

There is one thing in the world that I cannot stand.  It’s hearing that people are going hungry.  That’s right, not enough food to eat.  

I live in Cape May County where 2011 statistics gathered by Feeding American show that 13.1% of the people in our county are food insecure, with 57% of those folks below the threshold of poverty established by SNAP and other nutritional programs.  The latest federal threshold established in September 2012 for a family of four is $23,021; for two senior citizens it is $13,609. 

In Atlantic County, 15.2% are food insecure, according to the statistics.

What are we doing about this New Jersey?  I know we have Community Food Banks where people can go to supplement any purchases they may be able to afford but is that an answer?  What breaks the circle of poverty? 

Establishing jobs is the answer, I believe,  jobs where people can get a decent wage that puts food on the table for their children and themselves.  People need to be able to feel accomplished and be respected.  Charity is a good stop gap, but is not the answer to ending food insecurity.  

What can we do to establish jobs?  What proposals do  the government officials that we just elected have for doing just that?  I see campaign information that say jobs are a priority, so I want to know the details of how this is all going to work. 

Unlike some self-serving individuals believe,  most people don’t want charity.  Most people want to hold their heads up, look people in the eye, and say “Yes, I can provide for myself and my family”. 

So what are NJ elected officials going to do about it?