WhyHunger (formerly known as World Hunger Year, or WHY) is an organization that seeks to address the root causes of hunger and poverty. WhyHunger was founded in 1975 by folk singer Harry Chapin, a social activist who was as well known for his humanitarian efforts as for his guitar ballads, and 95.5 WPLJ New York, legendary radio D.J. Bill Ayres. Its Board of Directors is currently chaired by Jen Chapin.
WhyHunger is convinced that solutions to hunger and poverty can be found at the grassroots level. WhyHunger advances long-term solutions to hunger and poverty by supporting community-based organizations that empower individuals and build self-reliance, i.e., offering job training, education and after school programs; increasing access to housing and healthcare; providing microcredit and entrepreneurial opportunities; teaching people to grow their own food; and assisting small farmers. WhyHunger connects these organizations to funders, media and legislators.
On November 1, 2012, 12-year-old American classical crossover singer Jackie Evancho announced partnership with WhyHunger and beauty brand philosophy, selling "Cranberry Currant" 3-in-1 shampoo, body wash, and shower gel, using lyrics from her song "To Believe" on the packaging to inspire others to give back during the 2012 holiday season. The product retails for $20 on philosophy's and Sephora's websites, and 100% of the proceeds will benefit WhyHunger.
Famous quotes containing the words world, hunger and/or year:
“When I tried to talk to my father about the kind of work I might do after college, he said, “You know, Charlotte, I’ve been giving a lot of thought to that, and it seems to me that the world really needs good, competent secretaries. Your English degree will help you.” He said this with perfect seriousness. I was an A student at Bryn Mawr ...”
—Charlotte Palmer (b. c. 1925)
“I suffered her to disappear
Who hunger in the prison of my fear.”
—Jean Garrigue (1914–1972)
“1992 is not a year I shall look back on with undiluted pleasure. In the words of one of my more sympathetic correspondents, it has turned out to be an Annus Horribilis.”
—Elizabeth II (b. 1926)