How many people in America truly are hungry? What do they get to eat? Are hunger programs making a difference? Would you like to help find out?

A nationwide study seeks to find those answers and improve efforts to combat hunger.  The study called Hunger in America is part of a series of studies conducted by Feeding America and underwritten by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. Treasure Coast Food Bank, a member of Feeding America, is participating and is seeking volunteers to help.

Part of the study is a client survey in which those receiving food through Treasure Coast Food Bank and its partner agencies would answer survey questions on a tablet computer. The purpose is to bring a better understanding of  the issues faced by the agencies Treasure Coast Food Bank works with and the issues faced by people in need.

Feeding America and Treasure Coast Food Bank will use the information to advocate for assistance for those in need and to educate the public and donors about the need and services they provide to combat hunger.

People interested in helping should have the ability to work with tablets and be able to explain the study to the clients. Bilingual volunteers, primarily those who speak English and Spanish, will be needed as well. There will be mandatory training sessions. The first two take place Friday, April 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, and Saturday, April 13 from 1 to 3 p.m.  More information about the study and the role of volunteers is available at www.stophunger.org. People interested in volunteering can sign up for one of the training dates by calling 772-464-9617 or emailing YPreceptionist@stophunger.org.