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While America's farm and ranch families work hard year-round to produce the world's most abundant supply of affordable, high-quality food, the fact remains that many of their fellow citizens continue to feel the pangs of hunger.

For that reason, this year the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) joined forces with America's Second Harvest (A2H) – the nation's largest hunger-relief organization – to recognize the inaugural designation of National Hunger Awareness Day. June 5 was dedicated to highlighting the many ways people can help relieve hunger in their own communities.

According to A2H, hunger is a reality for millions of Americans, young and old, who never imagined they would be dependent on food banks, pantries, shelters and school lunch programs.

A recent report by A2H indicates the situation has taken a sharp turn for the worse because of the slow recovery from this past year's economic disruptions. A2H reports 80 percent of its affiliated local food banks and food rescue organizations have seen an increase in demand for food assistance during this time.

"As an organization representing America's first harvesters – our farmers and ranchers – AFBF is working to raise public awareness of the issues related to domestic hunger," said AFBF President Bob Stallman. "Supply is not the problem, but making sure that a share of the food we produce makes it to those less fortunate is a worthy goal for everyone involved in agriculture."

According to Stallman, farmers and ranchers interested in alleviating hunger in America can:

• Make a financial gift to get food to hungry people across the country by calling A2H at 800-771-2303
• Volunteer in the community. There are many ways to get involved, from sorting groceries to serving food to lending professional skills. Your local food bank or food rescue organization can tell you how you can help.
• Donate food and grocery products. Give needed items at community food drives or take the lead and organize your own. Contact your local food bank or food rescue organization to help you get started.

"These simple acts really can make a difference," Stallman said.

According to A2H, for every dollar donated, the organization is able to distribute 28 pounds of food to hungry Americans. Also in just one hour of volunteer time you could sort more than 200 pounds of surplus food that ends up on the tables of hungry Americans. For more information on what you can do to help, please visit the featured links section of the OFBF Web site at www.ofbf.org.