By Katie Beckmann Mahon, Communications Manager
This week’s “Embracing Faith” article will focus on Embracing Faith through Advocacy.
“Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.” -Luke 6:21
In 2018, nearly 37 million Americans struggled with food insecurity, and since then, that number has sadly risen due to the pandemic. (1)
Food insecurity, which is “a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life,” has impacted many different populations throughout the world and remains an issue that we still need to confront today in 2020. (1)
One way that we can address food insecurity is by participating in Hunger Action Month throughout September.
Last Thursday, September 10th, marked Hunger Action Day, “a day where efforts across the country are focused for greater hunger-fighting impact.” (2)
Several of the Sisters of Saint Dominic of Blauvelt, New York, have dedicated their ministries to fighting food insecurity and hunger.
For Sr. Dorothy Hall, OP, a Pastoral Associate at Saint Charles Borromeo Resurrection and All Saints in Harlem, who oversees two food pantries, this issue is something that she deals with daily at her ministry.
“It’s heartbreaking to see so many people who struggle with hunger that come to the pantries. Many pantries often only serve canned foods that contain a lot of sodium, and it is not nutritious. I believe in providing fresh fruits and vegetables to those I serve, and it’s what I’ve made it a point to do here at Saint Charles,” shared Sr. Dorothy.
Another Sister of Saint Dominic, who has been active in addressing food insecurity and hunger, is Sr. Lauria Fitzgerald, OP.
Sr. Lauria has devoted her life to food distribution and food service among the homeless communities in the Highbridge section of the Bronx.
Along with Sisters Dorothy and Lauria, Associate Cathy McCann has also been fighting food insecurity and hunger at her ministry.
A few months ago, Cathy came out of retirement to minister at New Jersey VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) and lead the pandemic response at food banks and pantries across the state.
“For our essential workers, and others – some are just a paycheck away from having to go to a food bank or pantry,” said Cathy.
In Blauvelt, Dominican College, a ministry site of several of our Sisters, has made substantial efforts to fight food insecurity and hunger in the local community.
Last year, the College opened up the Sister Catherine Howard Food Pantry to serve any students who need food assistance.
To learn more about the Sisters of Saint Dominic and our ministries, visit www.opblauvelt.org/sisters.