Hunger In The Suburbs

Hunger In The Suburbs Synopsis

It seems hard to believe that in the world's most affluent country, where farmers are paid millions of dollars not to produce food, hunger exists. Foodbanks throughout the country report a tremendous rise in the demand for their services. "Formerly middle class people are coming to our door to ask for food," says Sister Mary of a Philadelphia Catholic Church, "the New Poor."

In other areas of the country, residents have had to convince restaurants and supermarkets to donate food so that the hungry won't starve. Volunteers cook the contributions and serve lunch to more than 200 people a day.

In Seattle, a program to bring farmers and hungry families together helps. "Food is wasted in this country," an organizer told us. "Farmers plow food under. It doesn't pay for them to pick the irregularly sized vegetables. We've been feeding hundreds of people with leftovers. Anyone who is willing to pick the crop can take away all they can carry."

Take a look at this program and see what hungry Americans are doing to feed themselves. Maybe you will be inspired to create your own local solution.