1.02 billion hungry every day

The number of people going hungry every day would reach a record high of 1.02 billion, according to new estimates published by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization.

The U.N agency said this recent increase in world hunger is caused by the global economic crisis that has resulted in lower earnings and lost jobs, pushing some 100 million more people than last year into chronic hunger and poverty.

Almost all of the world' undernourished live in developing countries. In Asia and the Pacific, an estimated 642 million people are suffering from chronic hunger; in Sub-Saharan Africa 265 million; in Latin America and the Caribbean 53 million; in the Near East and North Africa 42 million; and in developed countries 15 million in total.

The FAO warned that not only will the global slowdown destroy livelihoods in the developing world – where almost all of the world's hungry live – it will reduce aid spending from wealthy countries by around a quarter, just when it is most needed.

By the grace of God, Food for the Hungry has been working since 1971 to help address the problem of hunger and poverty around the world. Impoverished families and communities need your help. Following are some ways you can make a difference and share God' love in a tangible way.

• Pray for the world' poor and hungry – they are the hardest hit by the global economic crisis. Pray that long-term solutions are created to help families at risk and on the brink of starvation.
• Give financially to help Food for the Hungry respond to world hunger with effective programs and outreaches.
• Help open a new future for a child in need through sponsorship. Child sponsorship with Food for the Hungry helps transform a child and his/her family and community.

 

To know more about the work of Food for the Hungry around the world and how you can be involved, call 1-800-248-6437.