Faith-Based Coalition for Global Nutrition Requests Legislators Take Action in 4th COVID-19 Supplemental to Avoid Millions of Hunger-related Child Deaths

This week, the Faith-Based Coalition for Global Nutrition sent a letter encouraging Congress to adequately address the international response for vulnerable populations, specifically noting the importance of global food security and nutrition programs in light of the COVID-19 crisis. We had more than 270 signatories from 33 states and Washington D.C.

Senator-Doctor Bill Frist, former U.S. Senate Majority Leader and contributor to The End of Hunger, notes, “Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of millions by helping those who lack basic nutrition. Tackling this challenge will serve as a shining example of US global leadership at its best and demonstrate the unparalleled compassion of the American people in this moment of history.”

Dr. Paul Osteen, vascular surgeon and associate pastor of Lakewood Church, shares, “Everywhere that I work in rural Africa I see the loss of life and potential as a result of malnutrition. Sadly, global hunger most often affects those most vulnerable—children and young mothers. As Christians, we are called to keep our hearts of compassion open and to continue to do what we can to heed Jesus’ words, ‘When I was hungry, you gave me something to eat’.”

Excited by the number of individuals who have lifted their voices on behalf of food-insecure populations all over the world, I offered the statement: “Millions of lives hang in the balance this year. The progress in eliminating hunger in recent years is being reversed, and now more than 30 countries are on the brink of famine because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the words of Margaret Mead, it ‘only takes a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens [to] change the world.’ Such is the case with global hunger advocacy. These leaders of faith are taking a stand to protect and increase funding for those who are experiencing extreme hunger. We hope Congress hears their voices.”