One million people now face hunger in Massachusetts. Coronavirus has forced a huge increase across the state of residents who don't know where or how they will get their next meal. Worse, the non-profit Feeding America reports that the increased percentage of hungry Bay Staters is greater than any other in the nation. While the pandemic fuels unemployment, more people than ever join lengthening food pantry lines, many for the first time. Children and people of color are affected disproportionally. Meanwhile, a federal response remains stalled. How have hunger organizations coped with the challenge of increased demand for food? Three groups from the region talk to us about how they’ve multiplied their efforts.

Guests:

Erin McAleer, president of Project Bread in Massachusetts, the state's only anti-hunger organization.

Andrew Schiff, chief executive officer of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

Ashley Stanley, founder and executive director of Lovin’ Spoonfuls, the largest food rescue agency in New England.

Later in the show:

Dogs have been used for decades to detect disease in humans. Their notable noses — which can sense cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, seizures, and more — have long impressed scientists and medical experts around the world. And now these super sniffers are being trained to smell COVID-19, even in asymptomatic carriers. Can man’s best friend help sniff our way out of the pandemic?

Guest:

Maria Goodavage, journalist and bestselling author, most recently of “Doctor Dogs: How Our Best Friends Are Becoming Our Best Medicine.”

Show Credits:

Under the Radar with Callie Crossley is a production of GBH, produced by Hannah Uebele and engineered by Dave Goodman.