National Hunger & Homeless Awareness Week

National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week is an annual initiative held the week before Thanksgiving to raise awareness about the challenges of hunger and homelessness. Organized by the National Coalition for the Homeless, it encourages communities to take action through education, advocacy, and service. The week serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by millions and inspires collective efforts to address these critical issues.

Quick Facts

When is it?: One week before Thanksgiving (November 17–23 in 2025).
Tagged as: Advocacy, Awareness, Social Justice.
What’s the hashtag?: #HHWeek
When was it founded?: 1975.
Who founded it?: Augustinian priest Ray Jackson and Villanova University students.

History of National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

Founded in 1975 at Villanova University, this initiative started as a campus-based effort led by Father Ray Jackson and students. Over time, it expanded nationwide, with over 700 communities now participating annually. The event focuses on educating people about the root causes of homelessness and hunger while promoting solutions like affordable housing and food security programs. It also challenges stereotypes surrounding homelessness and encourages empathy.

Timeline

1975: First events held at Villanova University.
1980s: Expanded to include advocacy campaigns addressing systemic issues.
1990s: National Coalition for the Homeless began coordinating efforts.
2000s: Fundraising events raised millions for local service providers.
Today: Over 700 locations participate annually.

National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	November 17–23	Monday–Sunday
2026	November 16–22	Monday–Sunday
2027	November 15–21	Monday–Sunday
2028	November 20–26	Monday–Sunday
2029	November 19–25	Monday–Sunday
2030	November 18–24	Monday–Sunday

Observed During National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

This week is observed through various activities aimed at education, advocacy, and direct support:

Educational Programs: Workshops and seminars highlight the causes of hunger and homelessness while dispelling myths.
Community Drives: Food, clothing, and fundraising drives collect essential resources for shelters and nonprofits.
Volunteerism: Individuals are encouraged to donate their time to shelters, food banks, and outreach programs.

These efforts emphasize both immediate relief and long-term solutions to systemic issues like poverty and housing insecurity.

Fun Facts About National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

Over 700 communities host events annually.
Millions of dollars have been raised for local service providers since its inception.
The “One Night Without a Home” sleep-out is a signature event that fosters empathy for those experiencing homelessness.

Quiz

What year was National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week founded?
Who co-founded the initiative?
What is the primary goal of this awareness week?
How many locations participate annually?
What hashtag is associated with this event?

(Answers: 1) 1975; 2) Ray Jackson; 3) To raise awareness about hunger and homelessness; 4) Over 700; 5) #HHWeek)

FAQs

What is National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week?
It’s a week dedicated to raising awareness about hunger and homelessness through education, advocacy, and service events.
Why is it held before Thanksgiving?
The timing emphasizes gratitude while encouraging support for those less fortunate during a challenging season.
How can I participate?
You can volunteer at local shelters, donate essentials, or join awareness events in your community.
Who organizes this event?
It’s coordinated by the National Coalition for the Homeless in partnership with local communities.
What are common activities during this week?
Events include food drives, sleep-outs, educational workshops, and fundraising campaigns.

Importance of National Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

This awareness week plays a vital role in:

Raising Awareness: It educates people about the root causes of hunger and homelessness while challenging stereotypes.
Inspiring Action: It mobilizes individuals and communities to contribute time, resources, or funds to help those in need.
Advocating for Change: It promotes systemic solutions, such as affordable housing policies and improved social services.