Senators MacGregor, Conyers, Stamas, Zorn, Hertel, Hildenbrand, Proos, Hansen, and Schmidt offered the following resolution:

Senate Resolution No. 142.

A resolution to declare March 14, 2018, as Hunger Solutions Day.

Whereas, The Food Bank Council of Michigan’s mission is to create a food secure state through advocacy, resource management, and collaboration among stakeholders and Michigan's unified food bank network; and

Whereas, There are 15.1 percent of Michigan residents regularly facing hunger in their households and 18 percent who do not have a consistent source of healthy and nutritious food; and

Whereas, The Food Bank Council of Michigan represents regional food banks that serve all 83 counties in Michigan; and

Whereas, Michigan food banks distribute food and resources to direct service agencies including pantries, after school programs, and senior centers; and

Whereas, Michigan food banks coordinate outreach and educational programs throughout the year to promote healthy and responsible choices that affect hunger; and

Whereas, The Food Bank Council of Michigan coordinates surplus donations from Michigan farmers in order to make available fresh and nutritious produce into the emergency food system; and

Whereas, The Food Bank Council of Michigan coordinates the statewide food and fund drive; and

Whereas, The Michigan Harvest Gathering has secured nearly 76 million meals since 1991; and

Whereas, The Food Bank Council of Michigan and Michigan food banks are committed to increasing access to nutritious food through programs and food distribution services; and

Whereas, The Food Bank Council of Michigan advocates for policy in support of food security for all Michigan residents; and

Whereas, The state of Michigan can be proud to encourage the collaborative and innovative strategies which bring food security to families, individuals, and communities that are desperately in need of support; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That the members of this legislative body declare March 14, 2018, as Hunger Solutions Day.