Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Spring 4-25-2025

College/Unit

Eberly College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program/Center

Not Listed

Abstract

Voices of Hunger WV (VoH) is committed to advancing the Right to Food (RtF) across West Virginia. RtF is: a fundamental human right that ensures everyone has access to adequate food, and to resources that allow individuals to produce, earn, or purchase sufficient nutritionally adequate and acceptable food.

Since 2020, VoH has supported the emergency of a movement for the RtF at the local, county and state in West Virginia through grassroots organizing and community empowerment. Spring 2025 research included accompanying VoH leadership fellows involved in strengthening support networks for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Their work has fostered deep connections with community members, elevated underrepresented voices, and supported a growing movement that is advocating for lasting change in the lives of West Virginians vulnerable to hunger. VoH is a collective effort that aims to build pathways toward a more equitable and resilient food system grounded in equity, justice, principles of democratic participation and shared leadership.

The research highlights key challenges, including the repeated rejection of the Campus Free Hunger Act by the West Virginia House of Delegates and ongoing cuts to hunger relief funding, which hinder support for vulnerable communities. Additionally, recent federal policy shifts have created funding uncertainty for many organizations and families, prompting major adjustments to research, programming, and outreach.

Despite setbacks, VoH remains dedicated to uplifting those impacted by food insecurity through personal storytelling, material support, research, and local partnerships. Ongoing community outreach events and food policy advocacy is central to VoH purpose and vision.

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