The United Nations Children’s Fund reported yesterday that malnutrition kills between 6 and 7 million children every year and leaves millions more stunted both physicially and mentally. In its annual report entitled The State of the World’s Children, UNICEF said the problem of under-nourishment was all the more dangerous because it often had no visible symptoms.

And in the United States, hunger and malnutrition are almost never recognized as serious social problems requiring urgent attention. But a slew of new reports out this past week, including one from the US Conference of Mayors, show that the demand for food and shelter continue to grow.

Guest:

• Lisa Carr, the legislative liaison for Catholic Charities USA, a network of social service agencies providing to people in need.
• Lynn Parker, the director of nutrition policy for FRAC, a public education and advocacy organization that aims to alleviate hunger in the United States.

Related links:

• Catholic Charities USA
• Food Research Action Council

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