Answer:
Hi! I've run into this problem before in my classes and there are some things you can do that will definitely help you bring your word count down to the acceptable amount.
For example, you can trim wordy phrases, use shorter words, and remove adverbs and adjectives.
Your first paragraph could look like this instead:
Centuries have passed since the Constitution was drafted by a group of unique thinkers, the Founding Fathers, allowing people to raise their voices and make the country a "more perfect Union." Over the years, significant progress has been made, but there is still much work to be done. Even in our great nation, people are still going hungry. How can the next generation make a change?
New paragraph word count: 66
Your second paragraph could look like this:
If you've ever visited New York City, you've probably seen people out in the streets with signs, asking for money. Why are they doing this? It's simple. These people are hungry, likely homeless and unemployed, and they have no way to support themselves. Instead, they must wait and hope someone else will help them. These people are citizens of our country, and their basic needs must be met if we want to be a truly united country. According to 2021 research, 89.5% of people in the United States have access to food, but this still leaves many people without it. The closer that number comes to 100%, the better, but conditions will not improve until everyone does their part.
New paragraph word count: 118
For the third paragraph:
There are many ways everyone can pitch in and help their communities. Volunteer or charity work, for example, goes a long way in helping the underprivileged. Food drives and donations also help to get people what they desperately need. When everyone does something small to help, the overall effort is huge - and so is the impact. Keeping Law Day in mind, doing a better job of getting food to the hungry is one way the United States can become a "more perfect Union."
New paragraph word count: 84
Your new word count is now closer to 300, which comes in under the maximum. Your original essay was written very well, but I did my best to shorten it and I hope it helps you! Take care and have a great day. - Mani :)