In a recent exploration of food insecurity, an article revealed a startling fact - in 2020, a staggering 13.8 million households faced food insecurity at some point during the year. This revelation sparked a profound thought process within me regarding food assistance and my acquaintance, Haley Kottler from the Kansas Appleseed. Around a year ago, I met Haley in downtown Topeka over a breakfast burrito and coffee as she was heading to the Kansas Statehouse for hearings on food insecurity.

Compassion in the Battle Against Food Insecurity

Food Insecurity: A Widespread Issue

The extent of food insecurity is truly alarming. As evidenced by the 2020 data, 13.8 million households were affected, highlighting the pervasive nature of this problem. It's not just a statistic; it's a reality that touches the lives of countless individuals and families. Imagine the daily struggle of not knowing where the next meal will come from. This is a crisis that demands our attention and action.Food insecurity doesn't discriminate; it affects people from all walks of life. Whether it's a middle-class family like mine or those on the margins of society, the need for reliable food sources is universal. My own upbringing in a middle-class home, where my parents provided for us with delicious meals and outings, made me oblivious to this issue for a long time. But when I encountered the hardships faced by those in need due to mental illness, my perspective changed completely.

The Role of Compassionate Organizations

Organizations like the Kansas Appleseed play a crucial role in advocating for the vulnerable and those experiencing poverty. Haley Kottler's unwavering compassion and fiery zeal to eliminate hunger in Kansas are truly inspiring. They work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity.Take Valeo Health Care in Topeka, for example. It provides essential support to thousands with serious mental illness. Providers like Valeo and Breakthrough House reach out and become like family to many. Sondra Knox, the housing person at Valeo, shares the difficulties of finding housing and the lengthy waiting list at the Topeka Housing Authority, which exceeds 1,000. The need for housing is a gaping wound that requires healing.

Health Care as a Crucial Need

For those with mental illness and homelessness, access to health care is a luxury that is often out of reach. I have firsthand experience of the importance of having a caring social worker. At the former New Beginnings Health Care in Topeka, I found solace and affirmation. But for those on the streets, such support is a distant dream. They yearn for the basic comforts of a warm car, a comfortable waiting room, and a kind person to confide in.Barry Feaker and the team at the Topeka Rescue Mission are dedicated to helping those in need on a daily basis. Their efforts over the years demonstrate their commitment to finding compassionate solutions to the crises we see around us.

The Call for Action

The needs are immense and they persist. Budget cuts to necessary programs like food assistance are not the answer. We need to increase funding, focus more attention, and provide greater support to the least among us. It is our moral responsibility to reach out and help.When the Kansas legislators reconvene in January, let compassion be our battle cry. Let's have wise strategies and discussions to assist Kansans in need. After all, we are all human and have different needs. It's time to act and make a positive impact.Rebecca Lyn Phillips, a published author, speaker, and mental health advocate, through the Kansas Reflector's opinion section, aims to amplify the voices of those affected by public policies. We must all come together to address these critical issues and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society.