Andrew Glantz
Co-Founder and CEO, GiftAMeal
What have been the biggest developments in ending hunger?
One of the biggest developments in ending the world hunger issue has been innovative business solutions. Oftentimes people view non-profits as the only route to solving hunger issues. Yet, with so many complex issues behind hunger, the emergence of for-profit businesses to combat these problems has been integral to beginning to solve this challenge.
Where do you think we need to improve as a society to reduce this massive problem end?
We need to improve on targeting root causes of hunger to end our massive problem. We need to evaluate underlying mechanisms that are causing cyclical poverty and are making families stuck in food insecurity. At the same time, we must also ensure that we are aiding those currently in need. This requires an increase in awareness and ownership over the hunger problem we face as a society.
How can a single individual help end hunger in our lifetime?
There are two main ways an individual can help end hunger. Firstly, work to increase awareness of the problem, research policy affecting hunger and contact representatives to implement changes. Secondly, individuals can volunteer at food banks and other organizations to combat the short-term problem. They can also affect hunger in their day-to-day lives through various apps and programs that help reduce hunger through everyday actions.
Belinda Hudmon
Chief Marketing Officer, Pampered Chef
What in your eyes have been the biggest developments in ending hunger?
Last September, the USDA announced that the number of food-insecure people has decreased. This is a significant development, but certainly there is still a lot of work to be done. A recent study showed that there is a growing “food budget” shortfall, which means that those who remain in need are facing even more financial strife now than they had previously. We’re proud to support hundreds of food banks across the country that work day in and day out to help families and individuals facing hunger.
Where do you think we need to improve as a society in order to help this massive problem end?
Every county in the U.S. struggles with hunger — and that means that every county has to be involved in the solution to end hunger. As a society, we need to attack this problem from multiple angles in order to truly make a difference, supporting food banks and the people they serve locally while also investing in national solutions to maximize and distribute nutritious, fresh donations.
What are the best ways an individual can help end hunger in our lifetime?
Because there is so much need, there are manyways to support people in need. You don’t have to stop at simply donating canned goods. Many organizations have joined the cause to maximize the difference we can all make when we come together. Whether you support the cause by donating from your local food bank or by hosting a fundraiser or benefit, the important thing is that you are shining a light on the problem and continually looking for ways to help support it both locally and nationally.
Nick Jordan
Founder and Executive Director, Wells of Life
What in your eyes have been the biggest developments in ending hunger?
There have been substantial scientific breakthroughs that have increased crop yields in many parts of the developing world. There has been an increased understand and more widespread knowledge about the state of our hungry and thirsty world.
Where do you think we need to improve as a society in order to help this massive problem end?
We need to improve in every area if we are to offer any meaningful challenge to defeating world hunger. Our governments need to recognize a common interest in solving the drivers of poverty and injustice in our world today. Our corporations need to improve their social responsibility and play a more meaningful part in making funds and manpower available to empower those who lack the basic elements for building a sustainable life. Every section of our society needs to reach out a helping hand towards our neighbor with action toward the common goal of sharing our food basket.
What are the best ways an individual can help end hunger in our lifetime?
The only guaranteed way for success to come about is for individuals to come together in defense of a shared ideal. In a busy and divided world, it takes a revolution of the few that are willing to stand for an ideal to bring the many into unity; and do their part in serving those without means to ever give anything in return.
World hunger is a large and difficult to grasp issue that is left to others. When we place individuals ahead of statistics, we make it easier to address the large problem in a scalable way. When one individual is moved to provide the gift of life through something as basic as water, they become part of a movement for change.
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