Release No. 0501.99

AGRICULTURE SECRETARY DAN GLICKMAN ON PRESIDENT CLINTON'S
EXPANDED EFFORTS TO FIGHT HUNGER IN AMERICA

December 23, 1999

"Despite our nation's tremendous agricultural bounty, hunger remains a serious problem in America. In 1998, about 36 million people in the United States, including 14 million children, were hungry or on the brink of hunger. As a nation, I believe it is our moral obligation to feed hungry people. 

"I applaud President Clinton for his extraordinary leadership and hard work in leading our national battle against hunger. Today, the President announced new steps to enhance our Community Food Security Initiative, helping communities fight hunger and increase food recovery efforts. The new steps include -- 

• Launching "2000 in 2000," a campaign aimed at generating, by the end of next year, 2000 new government, nonprofit and private sector commitments to fight hunger. 
• Releasing a joint USDA-EPA guide to help businesses and state and local governments include food recovery in their recycling efforts, feeding hungry people and protecting the environment.
• Releasing a new USDA guide to help communities improve nutritional access to underserved groups. 

"In addition, USDA-led efforts have now recovered over 8 million pounds of wholesome, excess food from farms and ranches all across America. Food recovery to feed the hungry is a win for everybody. 

"I encourage all Americans during this holiday season and in the months that follow to get involved with anti-hunger efforts in their communities.  Donate excess food or donate your time. The need is great and you can make a difference." 

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