Mass hunger in the US is a “moral scandal”, Rev David Beckmann, president of US-based Christian advocacy group, Bread for The World, told the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia this week.
Bread for the World, the only anti-hunger organisation to be invited to speak at the convention, say there are more than 48 million Americans – including one in five children – who struggle with hunger.
Rev Beckmann told faith activists and delegates at the convention that it was time for action on the issue.
“Mass hunger in America is a moral scandal. That’s why virtually all churches, synagogues, and mosques are moved to find some way to help feed hungry people,” he said. “If you are a political leader, pay attention. Ending hunger isn’t just right. It’s politically smart.”
The organisation, which is urging people to vote for leaders who will put the US and world on track to ending hunger by 2030, recently conducted a survey which found one in three voters in the US said they would vote for candidates who promised to make ending hunger a number one priority.
“I am praying and working in this election for a president and a Congress who will put us on track to end hunger by 2030,” Rev Beckmann said. “You are political leaders. Make ending hunger part of your agenda. Ending hunger is possible, voters want us to do it, and God is calling us to do it.”
Bread for the World has sought to speak at both the Republican and Democratic conventions but was only invited to speak at the DNC.
