KTUU.com | Alaska's news and information source | Study says Alaskans are going hungry
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"Empty Plates in the Greatland" says there is an estimated $29 million a year in available, unused federal funds. (Mike Nederbrock/KTUU-TV)
Food Bank of Alaska communication manager Amy Stevens (Mike Nederbrock/KTUU-TV)by Maria Downey
Monday, Feb. 12, 2007
Anchorage, Alaska - From food stamps to after school feeding sites, a new study shows more Alaskans can be helped with untapped federal funds.
The report, released in Juneau today by the Alaska Food Coalition, shows that about 24,000 children are still at risk of going hungry, along with thousands of adults.
At the same time, the report, called "Empty Plates in the Greatland," says there is an estimated $29 million a year in available federal funds not being used. The study found only 59 percent of eligible Alaskans are receiving food stamps, even though the money is available. It's disappointing and encouraging news at the same time.
"There is a way to end hunger in Alaska and it's just making sure all the resources are utilized. That's one of the reason Food Bank of Alaska exists -- to end hunger in Alaska -- and if there are many ways in which we can do it, we can certainly utilize all of them" said Food Bank of Alaska communication manager Amy Stevens.
The coalition's meeting in Juneau is looking at ways to use more of the federal funds while minimizing state dollars.
