As the holidays quickly approach, many of us will attempt to get into better shape in order to prepare for the extra pounds that seem to find us over the season. The holiday celebrations seem to provide an over abundance. We are inundated with excess; too much food, drink, too many gifts and we spend the remainder of the year trying to shed it all.
This is not the case for many in the world. According to the World Health Organization, 1 out of 11 people are experiencing hunger; 733 million people. In some countries, it is as high as 1 out of 5. Hunger related deaths exceed 9 million people a year, many of which are children under the age of 5. Thirty- five percent of our global population cannot afford a healthy diet because the cost is prohibitive.
This does not just occur in developing nations. Thirteen and a half percent of households in the United States are experiencing food insecurity. Their economic and social condition gives them limited or uncertain access to safe and nutritious food.
But, there is hope…
There is enough food to feed the world if allocated in a balanced way.
I love to celebrate the holidays. The memories created by gathering around the table with family and friends has had no equal for me.
But, this year… I also want to remember those who are experiencing hunger and food insecurity and do something about it.
There are many organizations whose primary focus is to address world hunger. There are also local businesses that collect food and distribute it to those in need.
If each of us do just one thing to help others this season, it can make a world of a difference.
Thank you for doing your part to live generously.
Carol Marchant Gibbs
Stories Changing Lives