1. Why Hunger? Three policy ideas I like published from WHY Hunger www.whyhunger.org

2. UNIVERSAL FREE SCHOOL LUNCH AND BREAKFAST Government should provide a universal free school lunch and breakfast for all school children from pre-k to 12th grade. For years we have been told that this is too expensive and that it is the responsibility of parents to feed their children, yet government in most places provides free books for all and free transportation for all who live beyond a reasonable distance . We as a society do that because we believe that books and transportation are an essential investment in our children so they can learn and in the future of our country. All studies and common sense tell us that children do not learn well on an empty stomach.

3. MAKE GOOD FOOD BLOOM IN FOOD DESERTS- There are thousands of what are called food deserts in our country. These are geographic areas where there are no or very few places to purchase nutritious food. Many food deserts are in cities where all or most of the supermarkets have left to be replaced by convenience stores, gas stations and fast food restaurants. Strangely, many others are in rural areas where the nearest food store is many miles away. During the recent gas crisis this placed an intolerable burden on rural families but even in normal times the burden is heavy. All levels of government, businesses, unions, schools and other community organizations should work together to promote, food coops, farmers markets, community gardens, backyard and rooftop gardens, and schoolyard gardens in areas that are considered food deserts.

4. RAISE THE MINIMUM WAGE AND INDEX IT TO INFLATION The value of the minimum wage has deteriorated dramatically over the past forty years. It must be raised to at least $9.50 an hour and indexed to inflation. State minimum wages must rise accordingly and several states, including the poorest states should have a state minimum wage.