Hunger and Poverty

Hunger is a reality for many U.S. residents. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported 36.2 million people in 2007 lived in food-insecure households, meaning people who are hungry or on the edge of hunger. Of those 36.2 million, 12.4 were children.

The ELCA social statement on economic life, Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All, reminds us that "the kingdom of God he[Jesus] proclaimed became real through concrete acts of justice: feeding people, freeing them from various forms of bondage, embracing those excluded by the systems of his day, and calling his followers to a life of faithfulness to God."

Lutherans have a long-standing public record of making a difference in the lives of hungry people through ELCA World Hunger and in their advocacy efforts at addressing the systemic causes of hunger.

In this section, you will learn more about the current legislative priorities and how you can be involved in changing the lives of everyday Americans.