On May 20, 1946 a man walked into an emergency food collection center in Cincinnati, Ohio to make a donation. Cincinnati, like many cities and towns, was trying to help people in Europe and Asia suffering from food shortages in the aftermath of World War II. The man gave 30 dollars to help this effort. This may not seem like much money today, but back in 1946 it was the man's entire weekly paycheck. The following day the Cincinnati Post reported the story of the anonymous man's generosity which represented the spirit of many Americans in helping the starving peoples of the war-torn countries.
Today's generation must show the same spirit in tackling the current global food crisis. This is no easy task, especially when you consider the ongoing financial emergency that has struck everyone, but as Josette Sheeran of the UN World Food Programme (WFP) points out, "As we take care of Wall Street and Main Street, we can’t forget the places that have no streets."
As President, Barack Obama will need to show leadership in fighting hunger. The challenges are overwhelming when one looks at the food crisis in different countries. High food prices during 2008 forced millions more people into the already swollen ranks of the hungry.
Where should Obama begin? He could start by appointing a White House coordinator to oversee the U.S. response to global hunger, as stipulated by the Global Food Security Act introduced by Senators Lugar and Casey. This "global hunger czar" could strengthen cooperation between existing U.S. government agencies, the private sector, and charities in order to maximize hunger relief efforts.
S/he could also advise the president and place the fight against hunger into the very forefront of American foreign policy, such as it was after World War II. In 1946, President Harry Truman called upon former President Herbert Hoover to serve as a "food ambassador." Hoover led a mission to over 30 countries to find out the food requirements and how to meet them. His mission also demonstrated the dedication of the United States to help countries in need. It was a show of great strength and compassion.
Article comments
1 - John T. Brock
The Implimentation of this position is critical to serve those in need immediately. I do not have a problem with helping globaly, However we need to sweep up the dirt on our own porch before we sweep those around the world. Our own people continue to suffer at an alarming rate. My best thought out project name for this is: INVEST IN THE U.S.
We are a country that has more than we know what to do with. The resources need to be apportioned appropriately throughout the needy areas. Our future hangs in the balance, A weak United States will automatically default to a weak world situation. This is a task at hand that needs specific analysis, surveying, and resolution
implementation immediately. Thank you for allowing my comments on this issue.
May God watch Over us All & Guide us Accordingly.