Make September Count: Use Hunger Action Month to Boost Your Food Drive

September is Hunger Action Month, and it's a built-in reason to give your neighborhood food drive some extra momentum this month. We'll cover the full campaign at this month's forum, but here are a few quick ways to put it to use before then:

• Mention it when you invite neighbors. Adding "it's Hunger Action Month" to your drive announcement gives people an extra reason to participate this time, not just donate a can and move on.
• Host a quick gathering in a communal space. Set up a table in your lobby, courtyard, or mailroom during drive week — even 30 minutes of face-to-face time gets more donations (and new volunteers) than a flyer alone.
• Share your drive on social or your neighborhood app. A quick post about your PORCH food drive happening during Hunger Action Month tends to get more traction than usual — tag it as such if you can.
• Set a September stretch goal. Whether it's more bags collected, more households participating, or more first-time volunteers, a small monthly goal gives neighbors something concrete to rally around.

Looking ahead: build now, benefit in November and December
Hunger doesn't take a break after September — and neither does the need for your drive. Use this month to lay groundwork for the busier holiday season ahead:

• Capture new volunteers now. Anyone who shows up for your September gathering is a warm lead for a holiday drive — get their contact info so you can invite them back.
• Note what worked. If a certain time, location, or outreach method drew more neighbors this month, plan to repeat it for your November/December drive.
• Start the holiday conversation early. A simple "see you again in November for our holiday food drive" at your September event plants the seed before the busy season hits.

You're already doing the hard part every month — this is just a chance to get a few more neighbors to notice, and to set your neighborhood up for an even bigger push later this year. See you at the forum for more ideas and talking points!

Media Spotlight: PORCH Cary (Silvercreek)

PORCH Cary (Silvercreek) hosted their first collection this month. Their pantry partner is right in their neighborhood, making for a convenient delivery! Thanks, PORCH Cary (Silvercreek) for sharing and making an impact in your community!