WHEREAS, the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, Hunger Free Oklahoma, and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma have led the charge to provide access to nutritious food and pathways to self-sufficiency for Oklahomans facing hunger; and

WHEREAS, according to the United States Department of Agriculture, Oklahoma is the sixth-hungriest state in the nation; and

WHEREAS, the majority of people served by food assistance programs are chronically hungry children, seniors on fixed incomes, post-secondary learners working to build skills for the workforce, and hardworking families struggling to make ends meet; and

WHEREAS, alleviating hunger supports thriving families and a thriving economy.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 59TH OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN:

THAT the Oklahoma State Legislature recognizes April 22, 2024, as Anti–Hunger Day in Oklahoma.

THAT the Oklahoma State Legislature praises the work of the Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, Hunger Free Oklahoma, and the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma for their dedication in helping address hunger.

THAT a copy of this resolution be distributed to Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma Chief Executive Officer Jeff Marlow, Hunger Free Oklahoma Chief Executive Officer Chris Bernard, and Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma Chief Executive Officer Stacy Dykstra.