Day Three : Freeing Children From Hunger

Hunger is a major issue which affects countless individuals all over the world.  The most recent estimates put the number of chronically hungry people  at 925 million, many of whom are innocent, helpless children. 

Hunger in the World

• 1 out of 4 children in developing countries are [underweight.]
• 10.9 million children under five die in developing countries each year.
• Lack of Vitamin A kills 1 million infants a year
• In 2008, nearly 9 million children died before they reached their fifth birthday. One third of these deaths are due directly or indirectly to hunger and malnutrition.

Hunger in America

• 1 out of 4 American children are at risk of hunger
• Food insecurity exists in 14.7 % of all American households.
• 20% or more of the child population is living in food insecure households [in 16 states + Washington D.C.]

Consequences

Children struggling with hunger may also face ...

• Slower growth and inhibited brain development.
• More illnesses, including stomachaches, headaches, colds, ear infections, and fatigue.
• Greater susceptibility to obesity and its harmful health consequences.
• Lower concentration and [alertness in school.]
• Lower academic achievement.
• Increased likelihood of developing psychosocial and behavioral issues

Creative Ways to Stand up Against Hunger!

• Walk for Hunger! On May 1st the Community Service Center at BSU is walking for hunger with Project Bread. Sign up to walk and raise money against hunger!
• FreeRice.Com is a fun interactive site that lets you practice your vocabulary. For every answer you get right they donate 10 grains of rice to the World Food Programme.
• Click to End Hunger! The Hunger Site is a site where you can click a button and through the sponsors the site will donate 1.1 cups of food to those in need. You can also find gifts, clothes, jewlery, and more on the hunger site and a percentage is donated to help end hunger.
• Come up with your own ideas! There are many resources that can help you develop creative projects, campaigns, and events to help end hunger. Watch how an idea like Trick-or-Treating for canned goods can make a difference - Halloween for Hunger!

This blog was written for Child Rights Awareness Week at BSU by Sullivan Cohen and Melissa Hughes, future FTC President and Secretary.
 

Check back tomorrow to learn about another child rights issue and how you can help!

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