Changing the politics of hunger requires changing the way each of us thinks about hunger, poverty, and the responsibilities of government. Just Harvest’s community education work is designed to debunk myths, deepen understanding, and mobilize different communities to action:
Financially struggling communities…
Misconceptions, prejudice, and fear keep many low-income and poor people from participating in the programs they are eligible for, and hesitant to demand better public policies to address income inequality and unnecessary hardship. We work to educate these communities about their rights, their responsibilities, and the realities of the public benefit programs.
Students & social service professionals…
The social workers and government employees who serve low-income populations should be fully aware of the realities of poverty in America and the struggles that low-income people face in navigating public benefits bureaucracies. Towards that end, we share clients’ first-hand experience of the system, our insight into needed reforms, and how advocacy efforts can make a difference. We aim to overcome stereotypes about clients and help people discover their unique roles in the struggle against injustice.
The community at large…
Hunger and poverty are not abstract or minor issues. We teach about the causes and serious consequences of poverty and hunger, and what each person can do to make a difference. We help to deconstruct damaging stereotypes, bridge cultural divides, and foster community understanding.
