“People who are hungry are stereotyped as being unmotivated and slothful. However, many people avoid seeking assistance because of transportation problems, social isolation, or shame.” – Citizen of Rogers County.
People who are looking to relocate to Tulsa often say that Claremore is the friendliest town in the area. Individuals in recovery and those in need of human services can receive support from agencies in the area. Individuals in Rogers County have brought attention to the critical need for Pelivan Transit to transport individuals in need of food access as a means of addressing the basic needs for individuals experiencing food insecurity. Yet even with enough money, it can be difficult to buy meals. Despite the efforts of local food pantries, it is difficult to procure meat, dairy, and produce.
Increased need for community gardens and increased promotion of resources like the Claremore library’s seed collection, two ways through which members of the community have voiced their desire to see fresh vegetables more widely available. Not to mention gardening education programs that teach people how to grow their own food, which is especially important in the colder months. The urgency of providing assistance to individuals experiencing food insecurity has become more apparent as the holiday season approaches.
“Food often takes a back seat to other pressing needs like housing, utilities, and medical care for many locals who are already struggling to make ends meet. Some people feel awkward approaching churches for assistance due to the nature of the location. It is important to make sure people are aware of the resources available to them and have direct conversations about their needs to remove any barriers that may be preventing them from receiving meals.” – Citizen of Rogers County.
Despite the Food Bank’s excellent efforts, many individuals in rural areas still feel ignored by their community. Particularly those who go hungry are those they like to see handled with the utmost respect and dignity. A lot of people in our community have the wrong idea about hunger. They think that people who are hungry don’t want to work or are just plain lazy. However, several obstacles exist for people experiencing food insecurity, such as limited mobility, feelings of isolation, and shame when seeking assistance. More individuals should be aware of the resources available to them, and they would want to see more donations from neighborhood businesses and residents.
We can build a more welcoming and caring society if we clarify misconceptions about hunger and learn about the challenges others endure. If we are united, we can make sure that no one goes hungry, and everyone gets the help they need.
Donations to the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma benefit our local pantries, who partner with us. Resources are available by visiting this website; https://okfoodbank.org/pantry-finder/.
Together, we can create an influence that lasts and fortifies our community.
