Rise Against Hunger, formerly Stop Hunger Now, is an international hunger relief non-profit organization that coordinates the packaging and distribution of food and other life-changing aid to people in developing nations.

Founded in 1998, Rise Against Hunger mobilizes more than 350,000 volunteers each year to package meals for people in need around the globe. Since 2005, Rise Against Hunger has distributed more than 3.15 million meals to recipients in 74 countries.

Rise Against Hunger’s is a volunteer-based initiative that coordinates the assembly-line packaging of nutritious dehydrated meals comprised of rice, soy, vegetables, and 23 essential vitamins and minerals. The program was created to give organizations the opportunity to participate in a hands-on international hunger relief program and to become educated, engaged advocates for the world’s hungry. The events also give volunteers hands-on experience in leadership development, team-building, relationship-building, creative problem-solving, and goal-setting and achievement.

Since 2005, these packaged meals have been used primarily to support school feeding programs in developing countries. Hunger is the common thread among the world’s most challenging issues. Targeting hunger — specifically by supporting school feeding programs — leverages support to other causes including poverty, disease, education, and the welfare of women and children.

Mocksville First United Methodist Church’s Missions Committee is hosting a Rise Against Hunger packing event, Sunday afternoon, Jan. 27 at 4 p.m. in the family life center at 310 N. Main St. Anyone or any groups who would like to participate in this fast-paced assembly line group effort is invited to help. Refreshments will be available. A group of 40 to 50 volunteers can package 10,152 meals in about two hours.

While long-term food security projects take root, vulnerable families and individuals still need to meet their basic needs today. Rise Against Hunger supports safety net programs that provide nourishment as well as skills training or services that support the journey out of poverty.

The meals support children’s attendance at school, help adults to learn a new trade or bolster clinic patients’ health to bring about holistic and transformational development in each of their lives.

Another core focus of Rise Against Hunger is responding to crises – natural and man-made. The third approach to eradicating hunger centers around grassroots community empowerment. Rise Against Hunger bolsters agricultural production and incomes through programs promoting improved agricultural methods, business skills, and market access. With training and access to seeds and fertilizers, farmers can increase production and harvest nutritious crops.