FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) – Kentuckians going hungry is a far-reaching problem that can go unnoticed. Advocates for a hunger-free Kentucky gathered in Frankfort to make sure everyone knows how to help.

Gov. Andy Beshear was surrounded by hunger-free Kentucky advocates as he signed a proclamation marking Feb. 28 as Hunger Free Kentucky Day. It was part of Feeding Kentucky’s Hunger Free Kentucky Day Rally. Several advocates spoke at the event, like Jamie Sizemore, the chair of Feeding Kentucky.

“While we would like to say that the demand for food assistance is declining, the truth is it’s not,” Sizemore said.

Mandy Agee is the assistant director of God’s Outreach in Richmond, and she gave her testimony on what she’s been doing while she served with the organization.

“I actually get the opportunity to be with people from all walks of life. I’m with the extremely privileged as we’re asking for their funding and their help, and I’m also with the extremely underprivileged. On a more regular basis. But they both have one thing really in common. We all need food. Food is a necessity we all have to have,” Agee said.

All speakers explained what they’re seeing in their communities. While 1 in 8 adults and 1 in 6 kids are going hungry in Kentucky, the good news is that outreach has increased, meaning these food banks are getting more help. Alisha Bork is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Kentucky. She grew up not knowing where her next meal would come from, and she uses those experiences to be an advocate for a hunger free Kentucky.

“The same fertile soil that produces food in this state, also produces hands and hearts that reach beyond their own capacity,” Bork said.

Food banks like Berea’s have implemented new methods of providing, including making sure every police cruiser has an emergency food box if they find a family in need. Executive director Tony Crachiolo says ideas like this will make a difference.

“We all know there are tough and challenging times ahead of us, and it’s never been tougher than it is right now. But you can do at your pantry what we’re doing at ours,” Crachiolo said.

More information on how to help Kentucky fight hunger can visit Feeding Kentucky.