ELCA Response to Hunger and Food Insecurity in the US

ELCA World Hunger (https://www.elca.org/hunger) has awarded Domestic Hunger Grants across 63 Synods

ELCA World Hunger Domestic Grants in 2021, ELCA World Hunger Domestic Hunger Grants,  and Big Dream Grants accompany congregations and their partners throughout the United States and Caribbean as they draw on the strengths of communities to address local issues such as food security, housing, job readiness, clean water, human rights, policy change, leadership development and more. Together, these ministries are part of a comprehensive approach to breaking the cycle of poverty and hunger – for good. ELCA World Hunger gives thanks for the 168 ministries that will be receiving $1,241,095 in ELCA World Hunger domestic grants in 2021.

• 53 ministries across this church have been awarded 2021 Domestic Hunger Grants for a total 3- year (2021-2023) investment of $900,000 with an average 3-year award of $16,981 per ministry. [Note: This includes 3 Southeastern Synod ministries – the Christ Kiswahili Lutheran Mission Nashville, TN; the Stewpot Community Services Jackson, MS; and Inspiritus, Inc. Atlanta, GA]

• 43 ministries awarded 2020 Domestic Hunger Grants and 71 ministries awarded 2019 Domestic Hunger Grants will receive continued funding in 2021.

• Four ministries have been awarded Big Dream Grants for a one-time investment of $200,000.

• In summer 2021, ELCA congregations with feeding ministries will be able to access additional funds through Daily Bread Matching Grants.

If your congregation is interested in more information about applying for a Hunger Grant for your food ministry, or if you are interested in starting a food ministry, please contact me at cherylbopp@hotmail.com or 770-856-8464.  

+ Cheryl Bopp, Southeastern Synod World Hunger Chair