WhyHunger

WhyHunger attacks the root causes of hunger and poverty by promoting effective and innovative community-based solutions that create self-reliance, economic justice, and food security.

Background: For 35 years WhyHunger (World Hunger Year, Inc.) has been an effective force in fighting hunger and poverty by: Identifying, supporting, and replicating the best community-based hunger and poverty programs nationwide that empower people and promote self-reliance; participating in coalitions to identify and shape the most beneficial social policies that support long-term solutions to hunger and poverty; providing public awareness of the problems of poverty and hunger; and, sharing information and resources. WhyHunger was founded in 1975 by its present Executive Director and radio personality Bill Ayres and the late singer/songwriter Harry Chapin. Since its inception, WHY has made a difference; initiating 24-hour Hungerthons launched in 1975 in six cities on Thanksgiving Weekend, reaching 10 million people nationwide. Hungerthon, held annually for 23 years in partnership with the Infinity Radio System has highlighted some 750 grassroots organizations and raised more than $6 million dollars for hunger and poverty relief. Last year, New York Infinity radio stations spotlighted 13 local groups. In 1978, The Presidential Commission on World Hunger; The New York City Food and Hunger Hotline; The Center for Food Action of New Jersey; Long Island Cares (Long Island's food bank) in 1982; The 1992 Medford Declaration to End Hunger; Replication Manual partnership with Americorps*VISTA 1997-1999; The 1999 White House Conference, Innovative Solutions to Ending Hunger Through Self-Reliance; Nationwide Replication Workshops in 2000 in conjunction with the USDA; and, many other activities.