Global Hunger

As Christians, we are called not only to feed the hungry, but also to work toward a just global economic system in which all have access to abundant and healthy food. Around the world, millions people go hungry while many in the U.S. have more food than we need.   

In 1990, 823 million people were hungry, according to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization. While progress was made in the intervening years, much ground has been lost due to the global food crisis, and the situation continues to worsen. More than 1.02 billion people were undernourished in 2009.  

Many U.S. policies, such as agricultural subsidies, undercut farmers in low-income countries.  Despite good intentions, even the shipping of U.S. food aid is flawed, as shipping costs and other fees account for much of the cost. These monies could be better used to purchase food locally or regionally in case of crisis. 

The Obama administration has created the Feed the Future initiative as a way to combat world hunger. However, large-scale U.S.-run aid programs can at times fail to meet the actual needs of communities or listen to their interests. 

The MCC Washington Office monitors and advocates for U.S. policies that would bring about greater food justice. 

World Food Day 2011: Learn how you can get involved!