The economic downturn has left many people with unmet needs, particularly hunger.

September is Hunger Action Month and Sunday is National Day of Service. A partnership between the North Carolina Association of Food Banks and Volunteer North Carolina proclaimed Sept. 10 through 12 as a Weekend of Service throughout the state, announced Gov. Beverly Perdue.

“As a way of remembering the sacrifices of Sept. 11, I am proud to say that North Carolina is honoring this day with an initiative to end hunger and give back to our citizens,” said Gov. Perdue. “I encourage all North Carolinians to collect non-perishable foods and volunteer during this weekend of service.”

There are several ways to get involved. People can donate money via cash, check, online or even by text-messaging 40MEALS to 50555 from a cell phone, which provides 40 meals through a $10 donation. People can volunteer their time at the warehouse projects

“We are very grateful for the governor’s support of food banks. She is bringing the entire state’s eyes to hunger in North Carolina,” said Christy L. Simmons, manager of public relations for the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. She said the amount of food in the food banks has grown since the economy weakened.

Simmons said this weekend event should not just be for one weekend, but to “let this be a kickoff for the remainder of the year.”

Staff Writer Dawn Kurry can be reached at dkurry@yourdailyjournal.com or by calling 997-3111 ext. 15.