Voices to End Hunger Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:03:28 -0400 https://alliancetoendhunger.org en-us © 2026 Alliance to End Hunger yes a9a6db05-18af-5d19-b969-93d3292cde5d Alliance to End Hunger episodic false The official podcast of the Alliance to End Hunger. Voices to End Hunger spotlights an array of food and nutrition experts in policy and practice - highlighting innovative approaches to combating hunger and malnutrition and featuring discussions on the intersection of advocacy and action. Guests include members of the Alliance to End Hunger, in-house policy experts, and local and global stakeholders working tirelessly to realize a zero-hunger world.


Hosted by Minerva Delgado

Produced by Nathan Magrath


Learn more about the Alliance to End Hunger, membership, and programs at https://alliancetoendhunger.org.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) hunger, nutrition, policy, politics, food, humanitarian, development Alliance to End Hunger https://storage.buzzsprout.com/qfy6x9op1wz34j7te5b5hgygow8q?.jpg Voices to End Hunger https://alliancetoendhunger.org Minerva Delgado A Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan A Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan Sudan is in the midst of the world’s largest humanitarian disaster. Famine has officially been declared in parts of the country, and 25 million people have reached “crisis” levels of food insecurity. Further, ongoing conflict and internal displacement have decimated communities and severely hampered agriculture, commerce, and aid deliveries.

With an ongoing and complicated crisis, understanding the current situation and needs is critical. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks to two on-the-ground experts about the current crisis, how organizations such as World Renew and ZOA are attempting to meet the need, and what advocates need to do to bring the crisis the attention and assistance it needs.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger 

Guest(s): Matilda Okech, World Renew; Eltayeb Omer Hamid, ZOA Sudan

Learn more about:

Further Reading:

BBC has a helpful snapshot of the conflict leading to the crisis:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjel2nn22z9o

Please note that this is background reading, and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Alliance to End Hunger or our partners in this episode.

]]> Sudan is in the midst of the world’s largest humanitarian disaster. Famine has officially been declared in parts of the country, and 25 million people have reached “crisis” levels of food insecurity. Further, ongoing conflict and internal displacement have decimated communities and severely hampered agriculture, commerce, and aid deliveries.

With an ongoing and complicated crisis, understanding the current situation and needs is critical. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks to two on-the-ground experts about the current crisis, how organizations such as World Renew and ZOA are attempting to meet the need, and what advocates need to do to bring the crisis the attention and assistance it needs.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger 

Guest(s): Matilda Okech, World Renew; Eltayeb Omer Hamid, ZOA Sudan

Learn more about:

Further Reading:

BBC has a helpful snapshot of the conflict leading to the crisis:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjel2nn22z9o

Please note that this is background reading, and does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Alliance to End Hunger or our partners in this episode.

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-19325815 Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400 2640 full false Service and Scarcity: Hunger in the Armed Forces Service and Scarcity: Hunger in the Armed Forces Hunger is a prevalent yet underreported issue faced by many members of the armed forces. Servicemembers and their families face daunting issues stemming from regular relocation, uncertainty, and other unique circumstances that pose challenges to the ability to reliably access needed resources. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with two experts on food insecurity in the military. Liza Lieberman is the Vice President of Public Affairs at MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, which has been a leading advocate for those facing hunger in the armed forces; and Megan Rowley, who helped establish a food pantry at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and has first-hand experience working with these families as they seek assistance. Together they speak about strategies and programs in policy and practice that are needed to address military hunger, and they talk about what advocates should know about this pervasive issue and how to address it.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s): Liza Lieberman, Vice President of Public Affairs, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger; and Megan Rowley, Founder, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Food Pantry

Lear More:

MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger's focus on Military Families: https://mazon.org/priorities/military-families/

Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Food Pantry: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbabfoodpantry/

Facebook (For JBAB/ DC-area Service Members & Families): https://www.facebook.com/groups/709222748317071/

]]> Hunger is a prevalent yet underreported issue faced by many members of the armed forces. Servicemembers and their families face daunting issues stemming from regular relocation, uncertainty, and other unique circumstances that pose challenges to the ability to reliably access needed resources. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with two experts on food insecurity in the military. Liza Lieberman is the Vice President of Public Affairs at MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, which has been a leading advocate for those facing hunger in the armed forces; and Megan Rowley, who helped establish a food pantry at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling and has first-hand experience working with these families as they seek assistance. Together they speak about strategies and programs in policy and practice that are needed to address military hunger, and they talk about what advocates should know about this pervasive issue and how to address it.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s): Liza Lieberman, Vice President of Public Affairs, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger; and Megan Rowley, Founder, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Food Pantry

Lear More:

MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger's focus on Military Families: https://mazon.org/priorities/military-families/

Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling Food Pantry: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jbabfoodpantry/

Facebook (For JBAB/ DC-area Service Members & Families): https://www.facebook.com/groups/709222748317071/

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-19166134 Wed, 13 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 2289 full false Building Rural Communities in a New Global Environment Building Rural Communities in a New Global Environment Global agricultural development has a tremendous role to play in both the economic success of lower and middle income countries, but also the prosperity of the world. The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has been at the heart of building up and supporting agricultural livelihoods and communities for decades, and its experiences and history provide valuable insights into the current moment we find ourselves. Host Minerva Delgado speaks with Katherine Meighan of IFAD to discuss the work of the organization, how global agricultural development supports broader priorities of people and governments, and how the business of agriculture in developing markets fits into wider global food security efforts.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Katherine Meighan, Chief Legal and Governance Officer, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

Learn more about IFAD by visiting their website at www.ifad.org.

]]> Global agricultural development has a tremendous role to play in both the economic success of lower and middle income countries, but also the prosperity of the world. The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has been at the heart of building up and supporting agricultural livelihoods and communities for decades, and its experiences and history provide valuable insights into the current moment we find ourselves. Host Minerva Delgado speaks with Katherine Meighan of IFAD to discuss the work of the organization, how global agricultural development supports broader priorities of people and governments, and how the business of agriculture in developing markets fits into wider global food security efforts.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Katherine Meighan, Chief Legal and Governance Officer, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

Learn more about IFAD by visiting their website at www.ifad.org.

]]> Buzzsprout-18970996 Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1609 full false Growing Hope Globally and Partnering for a Hunger-Free Future Growing Hope Globally and Partnering for a Hunger-Free Future U.S. agriculture and global food security have built a crucial relationship in American efforts to end hunger and malnutrition around the world. Not only is this relationship essential for critical programs, but it reflects the genuine values and determination of farmers themselves to provide enough food for everyone. This is no more clear than through the work of Growing Hope Globally, which mobilizes farmers and rural communities to partner with and contribute to a worldwide movement of agricultural development and food security. Host Minerva Delgado speaks to Kaitlyn Slate, President and CEO of Growing Hope Globally, about the value of cultivating these cross-border relationships in the agriculture community, and lessons that can be learned for the broader anti-hunger movement.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Kaitlyn Slate, President & CEO, Growing Hope Globally

Learn more about Growing Hope Globally, their impact, success stories, and how to get involved at https://www.growinghopeglobally.org

]]> U.S. agriculture and global food security have built a crucial relationship in American efforts to end hunger and malnutrition around the world. Not only is this relationship essential for critical programs, but it reflects the genuine values and determination of farmers themselves to provide enough food for everyone. This is no more clear than through the work of Growing Hope Globally, which mobilizes farmers and rural communities to partner with and contribute to a worldwide movement of agricultural development and food security. Host Minerva Delgado speaks to Kaitlyn Slate, President and CEO of Growing Hope Globally, about the value of cultivating these cross-border relationships in the agriculture community, and lessons that can be learned for the broader anti-hunger movement.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Kaitlyn Slate, President & CEO, Growing Hope Globally

Learn more about Growing Hope Globally, their impact, success stories, and how to get involved at https://www.growinghopeglobally.org

]]> Buzzsprout-18824362 Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1654 full false Food, History, Culture, and the Continuing March for Justice Food, History, Culture, and the Continuing March for Justice The month of February marks the celebration of Black History Month, through which we honor and commemorate the leaders and contributions of our Black communities and neighbors across the country. While voting rights and fair treatment are rightfully emphasized, there is a lesser-talked about component of civil rights: food justice. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, Minerva Delgado speaks to Tambra Stevenson, Founder and CEO of Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics, and Agriculture, or WANDA. Tambra brings a unique and insightful perspective of the key role that food, nutrition, meals, culture, and culinary history have and are playing in the struggle for justice across the country in both historical and modern practice. She also describes the work that WANDA is doing, and how everyday people can participate in building up a community and culture of justice around kitchen tables and beyond.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Tambra Raye Stevenson, Founder/CEO, WANDA: Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics and Agriculture

Learn more about Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics, and Agriculture (WANDA). Visit www.iamwanda.org.

]]> The month of February marks the celebration of Black History Month, through which we honor and commemorate the leaders and contributions of our Black communities and neighbors across the country. While voting rights and fair treatment are rightfully emphasized, there is a lesser-talked about component of civil rights: food justice. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, Minerva Delgado speaks to Tambra Stevenson, Founder and CEO of Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics, and Agriculture, or WANDA. Tambra brings a unique and insightful perspective of the key role that food, nutrition, meals, culture, and culinary history have and are playing in the struggle for justice across the country in both historical and modern practice. She also describes the work that WANDA is doing, and how everyday people can participate in building up a community and culture of justice around kitchen tables and beyond.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Tambra Raye Stevenson, Founder/CEO, WANDA: Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics and Agriculture

Learn more about Women Advancing Nutrition, Dietetics, and Agriculture (WANDA). Visit www.iamwanda.org.

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-18657044 Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1885 full false 2026: A Consequential Year Begins 2026: A Consequential Year Begins 2026 is already shaping up to be a consequential year for both domestic and global food and nutrition security. Globally, famine is threatening millions of people, especially in hotspots such as the Horn of Africa and Sudan. Further, conflict, climate, and continuing political and economic uncertainty are driving hunger and malnutrition in many regions and countries. In the United States SNAP continues to be in the spotlight, and those who rely on food assistance through federal nutrition programs find themselves, their families, and their lives under the microscope. Finally, midterm elections are just around the corner this November, offering a potential inflection point for how the U.S. government approaches food security issues. On this episode, Minerva Delgada speaks with Alliance to End Hunger president Eric Mitchell. They discuss the current state of hunger, food security policy, and what we should expect in the coming year.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Eric Mitchell, President, Alliance to End Hunger

]]> 2026 is already shaping up to be a consequential year for both domestic and global food and nutrition security. Globally, famine is threatening millions of people, especially in hotspots such as the Horn of Africa and Sudan. Further, conflict, climate, and continuing political and economic uncertainty are driving hunger and malnutrition in many regions and countries. In the United States SNAP continues to be in the spotlight, and those who rely on food assistance through federal nutrition programs find themselves, their families, and their lives under the microscope. Finally, midterm elections are just around the corner this November, offering a potential inflection point for how the U.S. government approaches food security issues. On this episode, Minerva Delgada speaks with Alliance to End Hunger president Eric Mitchell. They discuss the current state of hunger, food security policy, and what we should expect in the coming year.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Eric Mitchell, President, Alliance to End Hunger

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-18509880 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1576 full false Reflecting on a Tumultuous 2025: A Discussion with Rev. David Beckmann Reflecting on a Tumultuous 2025: A Discussion with Rev. David Beckmann 2025 posed unprecedented challenges to U.S. global and domestic food and nutrition security programs; with stress and uncertainty added to the lives of millions of people and families in the United States and around the globe who rely on assistance programs. These challenges mark the latest in a shift in the political landscape around food, nutrition, and development programs. Rev. David Beckmann, President Emeritus of the Alliance to End Hunger and Bread for the World, has observed the evolution of America’s understanding of and relationship to food security programming throughout his career. Host Minerva Delgado speaks to Rev. Beckmann about his observations and insights into the unique and challenging time we find ourselves, and how advocacy can play a key role in making hunger and poverty a priority once again. They also talk about his upcoming book, Poverty Abolitionists, and strategies we can take to make progress against poverty and hunger. 

Note to Listeners:

David Beckman's upcoming book, Poverty Abolitionists, is available for pre-order through the following links:

Amazon: https://a.co/d/ctfLrvF

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/poverty-abolitionists-david-beckmann/1148352847?ean=9798216275893

]]> 2025 posed unprecedented challenges to U.S. global and domestic food and nutrition security programs; with stress and uncertainty added to the lives of millions of people and families in the United States and around the globe who rely on assistance programs. These challenges mark the latest in a shift in the political landscape around food, nutrition, and development programs. Rev. David Beckmann, President Emeritus of the Alliance to End Hunger and Bread for the World, has observed the evolution of America’s understanding of and relationship to food security programming throughout his career. Host Minerva Delgado speaks to Rev. Beckmann about his observations and insights into the unique and challenging time we find ourselves, and how advocacy can play a key role in making hunger and poverty a priority once again. They also talk about his upcoming book, Poverty Abolitionists, and strategies we can take to make progress against poverty and hunger. 

Note to Listeners:

David Beckman's upcoming book, Poverty Abolitionists, is available for pre-order through the following links:

Amazon: https://a.co/d/ctfLrvF

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/poverty-abolitionists-david-beckmann/1148352847?ean=9798216275893

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-18344833 Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500 1036 full false Food Banks Respond to Recent Crisis and Uncertainty Food Banks Respond to Recent Crisis and Uncertainty The United States government just reopened after its record-breaking 43-day shutdown. During this time, federal nutrition programs found themselves in the crosshairs of debates over funding and a larger political battle. Caught in the middle were the tens of millions of individuals and families who depend on food assistance. Food bank demand soared, with many struggling to keep up with need. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with two food bank leaders serving a wide spectrum of populations – Rhonda Chafin of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee, and Craig Rice of Manna Food Center, which serves communities in Maryland right outside of Washington, DC. Together they share their observations about their operations during the shutdown, lingering effects heading into the holiday season, and what lessons may be learned by those dedicated to building a food secure future moving forward.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s):

  • Rhonda Chafin, Executive Director, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee
  • Craig Rice, CEO, Manna Food Center

Learn More:

]]> The United States government just reopened after its record-breaking 43-day shutdown. During this time, federal nutrition programs found themselves in the crosshairs of debates over funding and a larger political battle. Caught in the middle were the tens of millions of individuals and families who depend on food assistance. Food bank demand soared, with many struggling to keep up with need. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with two food bank leaders serving a wide spectrum of populations – Rhonda Chafin of Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee, and Craig Rice of Manna Food Center, which serves communities in Maryland right outside of Washington, DC. Together they share their observations about their operations during the shutdown, lingering effects heading into the holiday season, and what lessons may be learned by those dedicated to building a food secure future moving forward.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s):

  • Rhonda Chafin, Executive Director, Second Harvest Food Bank of Northeast Tennessee
  • Craig Rice, CEO, Manna Food Center

Learn More:

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-18254825 Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2318 full false A Critical Week for SNAP Food Assistance A Critical Week for SNAP Food Assistance Late last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that the federal government would cease providing funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – known as SNAP – starting November 1, in response to the ongoing government shutdown. This announcement was met with both moral and legal pushback on the Hill and from beneficiaries and advocates across the country. On this special episode of Voices to End Hunger, Minerva Delgado speaks with David Super, the Carmack Waterhouse Professor of Law and Economics at Georgetown University Law Center. He explains what is going on with SNAP, how we got here, and what beneficiaries and broader communities should expect in the coming days.

Read more by David Super

David Super: The Administration’s Shutdown of SNAP is Obviously Illegal (https://balkin.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-administrations-shutdown-of-snap-is.html)

]]> Late last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that the federal government would cease providing funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – known as SNAP – starting November 1, in response to the ongoing government shutdown. This announcement was met with both moral and legal pushback on the Hill and from beneficiaries and advocates across the country. On this special episode of Voices to End Hunger, Minerva Delgado speaks with David Super, the Carmack Waterhouse Professor of Law and Economics at Georgetown University Law Center. He explains what is going on with SNAP, how we got here, and what beneficiaries and broader communities should expect in the coming days.

Read more by David Super

David Super: The Administration’s Shutdown of SNAP is Obviously Illegal (https://balkin.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-administrations-shutdown-of-snap-is.html)

]]> Buzzsprout-18085500 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400 895 full false School Meals from Access to Appeal: Lessons from New York School Meals from Access to Appeal: Lessons from New York The school year is in full swing across the country, and approximately 30 million school-aged children are lining up in cafeterias each day to eat a school-provided lunch. These meals are nutritious – offering a balance of fruits, vegetables, low-fat or fat-free milk, whole grains and lean protein. However, not all students have equal access to school meals or the interest in eating them.  On this episode, Minerva speaks with Abbie Watts, Director of School Food Advocacy at Community Food Advocates (CFA) in New York City. They discuss CFA’s solutions to both issues of school meals access and appeal in New York.  They also discuss NY’s journey to “Universal School Meals,” NYC’s innovative cafeteria redesign program, and what lessons the rest of the country can take away from New York’s experience.

Note to listeners: Minerva Delgado serves as the president of the Board of Directors for Community Food Advocates.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s): Abbie Watts, Director of School Food Advocacy, Community Food Advocates

Helpful Links

Community Food Advocates: https://www.foodadvocates.org/

Learn about the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP): https://www.fns.usda.gov/cn/cep

]]> The school year is in full swing across the country, and approximately 30 million school-aged children are lining up in cafeterias each day to eat a school-provided lunch. These meals are nutritious – offering a balance of fruits, vegetables, low-fat or fat-free milk, whole grains and lean protein. However, not all students have equal access to school meals or the interest in eating them.  On this episode, Minerva speaks with Abbie Watts, Director of School Food Advocacy at Community Food Advocates (CFA) in New York City. They discuss CFA’s solutions to both issues of school meals access and appeal in New York.  They also discuss NY’s journey to “Universal School Meals,” NYC’s innovative cafeteria redesign program, and what lessons the rest of the country can take away from New York’s experience.

Note to listeners: Minerva Delgado serves as the president of the Board of Directors for Community Food Advocates.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s): Abbie Watts, Director of School Food Advocacy, Community Food Advocates

Helpful Links

Community Food Advocates: https://www.foodadvocates.org/

Learn about the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP): https://www.fns.usda.gov/cn/cep

]]> Buzzsprout-18017361 Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1951 full false The Future of Global Agriculture: Perspectives from the International Fund for Agricultural Development The Future of Global Agriculture: Perspectives from the International Fund for Agricultural Development The relationship between food security and agriculture is at once both apparent and complex, especially in matters of climate-related impacts. Around the world, people and families are struggling with high food prices and uncertainty about how they will reliably obtain healthy foods. According to the 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report, 2.6 billion people in the world could not afford a healthy diet. One key recommendation to address future food price spikes is to invest in resilient agrifood systems, including agriculture. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with Brooke Jamison, Chief of the Americas Liaison Office for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). Together, they discuss the intersection of agriculture and food security, recent advances in agricultural development, and the unique approach and investments that IFAD has found to positively impact farmers and communities around the world.

Guest

Brooke Jamison, Chief, Americas Liaison Office of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) 

Resources

]]> The relationship between food security and agriculture is at once both apparent and complex, especially in matters of climate-related impacts. Around the world, people and families are struggling with high food prices and uncertainty about how they will reliably obtain healthy foods. According to the 2025 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report, 2.6 billion people in the world could not afford a healthy diet. One key recommendation to address future food price spikes is to invest in resilient agrifood systems, including agriculture. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with Brooke Jamison, Chief of the Americas Liaison Office for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). Together, they discuss the intersection of agriculture and food security, recent advances in agricultural development, and the unique approach and investments that IFAD has found to positively impact farmers and communities around the world.

Guest

Brooke Jamison, Chief, Americas Liaison Office of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) 

Resources

]]> Buzzsprout-17859903 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400 1622 full false Global Food Security: A New Report, Global Moments, and Opportunities for Action Global Food Security: A New Report, Global Moments, and Opportunities for Action The annual State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report was recently published by the World Food Programme, Food and Agriculture Organization, International Fund for Agricultural Development, and others. The report states that up to 720 million people around the world are facing hunger. This represents a modest decrease owing to “notable improvement in South-eastern Asia, Southern Asia and South America in contrast to the continuing rise in hunger in most subregions of Africa and in Western Asia.” This report comes amidst a flurry of global activity including international agreements, summits, conflict, and economic uncertainty. On this episode host Minerva Delgado speaks with Asma Lateef of the SDG2 Advocacy Hub about the state of food security in the world today, the power of cross-sector partnerships, and what advocates should keep their eyes out for in the coming weeks and months.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Asma Lateef, Chief of Policy and Advocacy Impact, SDG2 Advocacy Hub Secretariat

Resources:

Join the 2025 Hunger Free Communities Virtual Summit

]]> The annual State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report was recently published by the World Food Programme, Food and Agriculture Organization, International Fund for Agricultural Development, and others. The report states that up to 720 million people around the world are facing hunger. This represents a modest decrease owing to “notable improvement in South-eastern Asia, Southern Asia and South America in contrast to the continuing rise in hunger in most subregions of Africa and in Western Asia.” This report comes amidst a flurry of global activity including international agreements, summits, conflict, and economic uncertainty. On this episode host Minerva Delgado speaks with Asma Lateef of the SDG2 Advocacy Hub about the state of food security in the world today, the power of cross-sector partnerships, and what advocates should keep their eyes out for in the coming weeks and months.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Asma Lateef, Chief of Policy and Advocacy Impact, SDG2 Advocacy Hub Secretariat

Resources:

Join the 2025 Hunger Free Communities Virtual Summit

]]> Buzzsprout-17750065 Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2525 full false A Tradition of Commitment to America’s Seniors: The Older Americans Act Turns 60 A Tradition of Commitment to America’s Seniors: The Older Americans Act Turns 60 The Older Americans Act recently turned 60. This landmark piece of legislation has been fundamental in our nation’s approach to caring for and promoting the well-being of our nation’s seniors, including through vital nutrition programming. On this episode on Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with Josh Protas of Meals on Wheels America about OAA, hunger among our nation’s seniors, and what the present and future of the OAA looks like.

Guest: Josh Protas, Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer, Meals on Wheels America

Learn More:

Meals on Wheels America: www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org

End the Wait campaign: www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/end-the-wait/


]]> The Older Americans Act recently turned 60. This landmark piece of legislation has been fundamental in our nation’s approach to caring for and promoting the well-being of our nation’s seniors, including through vital nutrition programming. On this episode on Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with Josh Protas of Meals on Wheels America about OAA, hunger among our nation’s seniors, and what the present and future of the OAA looks like.

Guest: Josh Protas, Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer, Meals on Wheels America

Learn More:

Meals on Wheels America: www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org

End the Wait campaign: www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/end-the-wait/


]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-17595582 Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2384 full false Tackling Child Hunger in the Summer Tackling Child Hunger in the Summer For many kids, Summer is a time for enjoying the outdoors, relaxing, and recuperating after a long school year. However, for an often-overlooked number of children and their families it is also a stressful time of dealing with the meal gaps that were previously filled by free and reduced school breakfast and lunch programs. Summer meals and Summer EBT have become more prominent over the years as their crucial value to so many kids has become more apparent, but the implementation of these programs still faces challenges. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with two experts in policy and practice when it comes to summer meals and Summer EBT, also known as Sun Bucks through USDA, their delivery, and the politics behind them.

Guest(s):

-Jonathan Hansen, Chief Strategy Officer, Hunger Task Force (Milwaukee, WI)

-Carolyn Vega, Associate Director, Policy Analysis, No Kid Hungry Center for Best Practices, Share Our Strength

Learn More:

Share Our Strength: https://shareourstrength.org/

Hunger Task Force: https://www.hungertaskforce.org/

Programs referenced in this episode

Community Eligibility Provision (CEP): is a provision within the National School Lunch Program that allows eligible schools in high-poverty areas to serve free meals to all students without collecting household applications. Instead, schools are reimbursed based on a formula using the percentage of students directly certified for free meals.

Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer), also known as SUN Bucks: “SUN Bucks provides $120 in grocery benefits per eligible school-age child when school is out for summer. SUN Bucks can be used to purchase food from authorized retailers in participating states, Tribes, and territories.” (https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks)

Summer Meals/SUN Meals: “Through SUN Meals, kids of all ages can eat meals and snacks during the summer at no cost at schools, parks, and other neighborhood locations. SUN Meals may have a different name where you live, but the benefit is the same: nutritious meals for kids and teens in the summer when school is out.” (https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunmeals) 

Non-Congregate Summer Meals/SUN Meals to Go: Meals provided to eligible children to consume outside of a static “congregate” setting such as a school, park, or other meeting place.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): The largest federal food assistance program in the United States, SNAP provides over 42 million low-income people with supplemental assistance through state-based EBT programs to purchase food for themselves and their families. 

Credits

Host: Minerva Delgado

Produced and Edited by: Nate Magrath

Additional Editing: Malia Adams

]]> For many kids, Summer is a time for enjoying the outdoors, relaxing, and recuperating after a long school year. However, for an often-overlooked number of children and their families it is also a stressful time of dealing with the meal gaps that were previously filled by free and reduced school breakfast and lunch programs. Summer meals and Summer EBT have become more prominent over the years as their crucial value to so many kids has become more apparent, but the implementation of these programs still faces challenges. On this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with two experts in policy and practice when it comes to summer meals and Summer EBT, also known as Sun Bucks through USDA, their delivery, and the politics behind them.

Guest(s):

-Jonathan Hansen, Chief Strategy Officer, Hunger Task Force (Milwaukee, WI)

-Carolyn Vega, Associate Director, Policy Analysis, No Kid Hungry Center for Best Practices, Share Our Strength

Learn More:

Share Our Strength: https://shareourstrength.org/

Hunger Task Force: https://www.hungertaskforce.org/

Programs referenced in this episode

Community Eligibility Provision (CEP): is a provision within the National School Lunch Program that allows eligible schools in high-poverty areas to serve free meals to all students without collecting household applications. Instead, schools are reimbursed based on a formula using the percentage of students directly certified for free meals.

Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer), also known as SUN Bucks: “SUN Bucks provides $120 in grocery benefits per eligible school-age child when school is out for summer. SUN Bucks can be used to purchase food from authorized retailers in participating states, Tribes, and territories.” (https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks)

Summer Meals/SUN Meals: “Through SUN Meals, kids of all ages can eat meals and snacks during the summer at no cost at schools, parks, and other neighborhood locations. SUN Meals may have a different name where you live, but the benefit is the same: nutritious meals for kids and teens in the summer when school is out.” (https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sunmeals) 

Non-Congregate Summer Meals/SUN Meals to Go: Meals provided to eligible children to consume outside of a static “congregate” setting such as a school, park, or other meeting place.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): The largest federal food assistance program in the United States, SNAP provides over 42 million low-income people with supplemental assistance through state-based EBT programs to purchase food for themselves and their families. 

Credits

Host: Minerva Delgado

Produced and Edited by: Nate Magrath

Additional Editing: Malia Adams

]]> Buzzsprout-17444228 Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2078 full false Building Hunger Free Communities Building Hunger Free Communities Across the country, groups and coalitions have come together dedicated to ending hunger and malnutrition in their cities, towns, counties, regions, and states. These “Hunger Free Communities” approach the root causes of poverty and hunger within their own contexts – providing solutions to local issues and models for the broader anti-hunger movement in the United States. In this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with three leaders in the Hunger Free Communities space to discuss the unique possibilities and challenges faced by local anti-hunger efforts, as well as how their approaches have benefited from being a part of the Alliance to End Hunger’s Hunger Free Communities Network ™. 

Guest(s): Chris Bernard, Hunger Free Oklahoma; Kate Howe, Indy Hunger Network; Caitlyn Peacock, Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger

Learn more:

Hunger Free Oklahoma: https://www.hungerfreeok.org/

Indy Hunger Network: https://www.indyhunger.org/

Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger: https://networktoendhunger.org/

]]> Across the country, groups and coalitions have come together dedicated to ending hunger and malnutrition in their cities, towns, counties, regions, and states. These “Hunger Free Communities” approach the root causes of poverty and hunger within their own contexts – providing solutions to local issues and models for the broader anti-hunger movement in the United States. In this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with three leaders in the Hunger Free Communities space to discuss the unique possibilities and challenges faced by local anti-hunger efforts, as well as how their approaches have benefited from being a part of the Alliance to End Hunger’s Hunger Free Communities Network ™. 

Guest(s): Chris Bernard, Hunger Free Oklahoma; Kate Howe, Indy Hunger Network; Caitlyn Peacock, Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger

Learn more:

Hunger Free Oklahoma: https://www.hungerfreeok.org/

Indy Hunger Network: https://www.indyhunger.org/

Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger: https://networktoendhunger.org/

]]> Buzzsprout-17341969 Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2900 full false Feeding Futures: Unlocking the Potential of Global School Meals Feeding Futures: Unlocking the Potential of Global School Meals School meals serve over 407 million children across at least 148 countries. For many children in the developing world school may be the only place they receive a nutritious meal in a given day. But the impact of school meals goes well beyond individual children – working to build up families, communities, and the future of entire nations. In this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with Arlene Mitchell, Executive Director of Alliance member Global Child Nutrition Foundation. Together, they discuss the history of school meals, the tremendous impact they have had around the globe, and the U.S. contribution to this global movement through programs such as the McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Arlene Mitchell, Executive Director, Global Child Nutrition Foundation

Learn more about the Global Child Nutrition Foundation at https://gcnf.org/

Read the 2024 School Meal Programs Around the World report, and learn more about the global survey and other reports: https://gcnf.org/global-reports/ 

Also:

ICYMI: Listen to our recent special episode on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) featuring the voices from those who have first hand experience and expertise on the program: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2451786/episodes/17140052

]]> School meals serve over 407 million children across at least 148 countries. For many children in the developing world school may be the only place they receive a nutritious meal in a given day. But the impact of school meals goes well beyond individual children – working to build up families, communities, and the future of entire nations. In this episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with Arlene Mitchell, Executive Director of Alliance member Global Child Nutrition Foundation. Together, they discuss the history of school meals, the tremendous impact they have had around the globe, and the U.S. contribution to this global movement through programs such as the McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest: Arlene Mitchell, Executive Director, Global Child Nutrition Foundation

Learn more about the Global Child Nutrition Foundation at https://gcnf.org/

Read the 2024 School Meal Programs Around the World report, and learn more about the global survey and other reports: https://gcnf.org/global-reports/ 

Also:

ICYMI: Listen to our recent special episode on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) featuring the voices from those who have first hand experience and expertise on the program: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2451786/episodes/17140052

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-17263996 Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2095 full false Myth Busters: Stories of SNAP Food Assistance from Those Who Use It Myth Busters: Stories of SNAP Food Assistance from Those Who Use It The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is no stranger to attacks, nor are the millions of individuals and families that rely on food assistance and other federal programs. Charges of waste, fraud, and abuse have paved the way to systematic dismantling of policies, departments, and even entire agencies in recent months, and the campaign is once again threatening assistance programs for lower income people and families. Unfortunately, amidst the battle over federal funding, the voices of those who actually rely on the programs have been drowned out. On this special episode of the Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with individuals with lived experience with SNAP and other programs, and discusses what policymakers and everyday people need to understand about these critical programs and the lives affected by them. 

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger 

Guests: Barbie Izquierdo, Dawn Pierce, Yolanda Gordon 

Learn more about the documentary A Place at the Table referenced in this episode HERE: https://www.magpictures.com/aplaceatthetable/.

Check out Barbie Izquierdo's books on Etsy HERE: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BarbieFightsHunger.

]]> The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is no stranger to attacks, nor are the millions of individuals and families that rely on food assistance and other federal programs. Charges of waste, fraud, and abuse have paved the way to systematic dismantling of policies, departments, and even entire agencies in recent months, and the campaign is once again threatening assistance programs for lower income people and families. Unfortunately, amidst the battle over federal funding, the voices of those who actually rely on the programs have been drowned out. On this special episode of the Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks with individuals with lived experience with SNAP and other programs, and discusses what policymakers and everyday people need to understand about these critical programs and the lives affected by them. 

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End Hunger 

Guests: Barbie Izquierdo, Dawn Pierce, Yolanda Gordon 

Learn more about the documentary A Place at the Table referenced in this episode HERE: https://www.magpictures.com/aplaceatthetable/.

Check out Barbie Izquierdo's books on Etsy HERE: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BarbieFightsHunger.

]]> Buzzsprout-17140052 Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2550 full false Against the Odds – Treating Severe Child Malnutrition Against the Odds – Treating Severe Child Malnutrition The world is in the midst of the worst food crisis in decades, with 750 million people facing food insecurity, severe hunger, and even famine conditions impacting places across the globe. Nobody is more seriously impacted than children during their early formative years. Alliance to End Hunger president Eric Mitchell guest hosts a discussion with leaders from two organizations facing the issue head on: Navyn Salem, Founder and CEO of Edesia Nutrition and Chris Greene, CEO of Meds & Food for Kids in Haiti. Together, the group will discuss the state of child malnutrition, the proven effectiveness of ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF), and what the future of emergency nutrition interventions does and should look like for our world’s most vulnerable kids.

Host: Eric Mitchell, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s):
Chris Greene, CEO, Meds & Food for Kids
Navyn Salem, Founder and CEO, Edesia Nutrition

Learn More:
Meds & Food for Kids: www.mfkhaiti.org
Edesia Nutrition: www.edesianutrition.org

Questions? Comments? Feedback?
podcast@alliancetoendhunger.org


]]> The world is in the midst of the worst food crisis in decades, with 750 million people facing food insecurity, severe hunger, and even famine conditions impacting places across the globe. Nobody is more seriously impacted than children during their early formative years. Alliance to End Hunger president Eric Mitchell guest hosts a discussion with leaders from two organizations facing the issue head on: Navyn Salem, Founder and CEO of Edesia Nutrition and Chris Greene, CEO of Meds & Food for Kids in Haiti. Together, the group will discuss the state of child malnutrition, the proven effectiveness of ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF), and what the future of emergency nutrition interventions does and should look like for our world’s most vulnerable kids.

Host: Eric Mitchell, Alliance to End Hunger

Guest(s):
Chris Greene, CEO, Meds & Food for Kids
Navyn Salem, Founder and CEO, Edesia Nutrition

Learn More:
Meds & Food for Kids: www.mfkhaiti.org
Edesia Nutrition: www.edesianutrition.org

Questions? Comments? Feedback?
podcast@alliancetoendhunger.org


]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-17080586 Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2586 full false Nourishing Second Chances Nourishing Second Chances April marks “Second Chance Month” across the United States. It is a time to highlight barriers that stand in the way of people who have served their debt to society, and act to ensure previously incarcerated individuals and their families are not burdened by hunger as they seek to start their lives anew. Reginald Darby of The Clean Slate Initiative joins host Minerva Delgado to discuss Second Chance Month, the work of Clean Slate Initiative, and how we can advance food security among this particularly vulnerable population in order to help build healthy families and communities.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End hunger

Guest: Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director, The Clean Slate Initiative

Learn more about The Clean Slate Initiative at https://www.cleanslateinitiative.org

]]> April marks “Second Chance Month” across the United States. It is a time to highlight barriers that stand in the way of people who have served their debt to society, and act to ensure previously incarcerated individuals and their families are not burdened by hunger as they seek to start their lives anew. Reginald Darby of The Clean Slate Initiative joins host Minerva Delgado to discuss Second Chance Month, the work of Clean Slate Initiative, and how we can advance food security among this particularly vulnerable population in order to help build healthy families and communities.

Host: Minerva Delgado, Alliance to End hunger

Guest: Reginald Darby, Federal Legislative Director, The Clean Slate Initiative

Learn more about The Clean Slate Initiative at https://www.cleanslateinitiative.org

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-16917317 Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400 1454 full false Voices to End Hunger: The Alliance to End Hunger Podcast Voices to End Hunger: The Alliance to End Hunger Podcast On this inaugural episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks to Alliance to End Hunger president Eric Mitchell. Their discussion covers the current state of hunger in the U.S. and around the world, developments over the first few weeks of 2025, and what to expect in the coming weeks and months. Minerva and Eric will also talk about the podcast and what to look forward to in coming episodes.

]]> On this inaugural episode of Voices to End Hunger, host Minerva Delgado speaks to Alliance to End Hunger president Eric Mitchell. Their discussion covers the current state of hunger in the U.S. and around the world, developments over the first few weeks of 2025, and what to expect in the coming weeks and months. Minerva and Eric will also talk about the podcast and what to look forward to in coming episodes.

]]> Alliance to End Hunger Buzzsprout-16844039 Sun, 23 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400 1833 full false