Friends of the World Food Program

Every year on October 16, people around the world mark World Food Day by raising awareness about global hunger.  This year, World Food Day takes on an especially important significance. For the first time in history, over 1 billion people are going to bed hungry each night – a record-breaking number that can easily escalate. At the same time, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) is facing a serious budget shortfall, with barely one-third of the funding it needs to feed 108 million people this year.

The results are disturbing. In Kenya, severe drought has ended all hopes of a successful harvest for millions – and WFP food supplies may run dry in October. A food shortage in Guatemala has been declared a “calamity” by the country’s own president – and 100,000 children may soon lose their supply of nutritious food if funding doesn’t improve. Bangladesh is already feeling the devastating effects of climate change, and without additional funds WFP will be unable to help thousands of people endure the floods and other natural disasters that are expected to come.

However, there is good news. You can make a difference, and World Food Day is the perfect time to do it. Communities around the country are organizing events that embrace the generous spirit of World Food Day, and they welcome the participation of supporters like you. Individual action also makes a critical difference – submitting a letter to the editor, calling your Member of Congress or donating to feed the hungry poor.

As we approach October 16, as you begin to plan for the perfect Halloween costume, Thanksgiving dinner or holiday gift, make sure to include one more thing – a plan for how you will help put an end to global hunger.