We live in the world's wealthiest nation. Yet 14.5 percent of U.S. households, nearly 49million Americans, including 16.2 million children—struggle to put food on the table.  In the United States, hunger is not caused by a scarcity of food, but rather the ongoing issues related to poverty.



The most direct way to reduce hunger in the U.S. is through national nutrition programs. But while food assistance to hungry people is vital, it is not enough.