Today, Feeding America and Ad Council launched new public service announcements (PSAs) featuring actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry to help spread the message about childhood hunger in America and inspire people to take action.
The new PSAs are an extension of Feeding America’s national Hunger Prevention campaign in partnership with the Ad Council, which is designed to raise awareness about hunger in America and encourage audiences to support the Feeding America nationwide network of food banks. Tyler Perry donated his time and talent for the project and is a member of Feeding America’s Entertainment Council of celebrity supporters.
“As a member of the Feeding America Entertainment Council, I recognize our mission to spread the word and rally the country in the fight to end hunger,” said Tyler Perry. “15 million children suffer from hunger in the U.S. and through our newly released PSA, we will continue to raise awareness and provide meals to children and families in need across the country.”
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), one in five children in America – 15 million kids – struggle with hunger. While food insecurity affects people of all ages, it is particularly devastating for children because of the potential for long term consequences. Research has shown that good nutrition has positive implications for a child’s future physical and mental health, and academic achievement.
“Childhood hunger is an unacceptable problem that affects far too many children and reaches into every community in America,” said Diana Aviv, CEO of Feeding America. “We’re so appreciative that Tyler Perry is joining us in bringing national attention to this vital issue. By providing a strong voice for children who struggle with hunger, he can help inspire more people to engage with their local food banks and make a true difference in the lives of millions in need.”
The new PSAs feature Tyler Perry discussing the disproportionate effects of hunger on children, highlighting the fact that there are billions of pounds of surplus food wasted each year in the U.S. that could help feed families in need. The PSAs encourage audiences to visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more about hunger in their communities, and to get involved in the fight to end hunger by volunteering at a local food bank, contacting their Members of Congress, and donating food or funds.
“No child should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from,” said Lisa Sherman, President and CEO of the Ad Council. “We believe that Tyler Perry’s support will inspire communities to take action and give back to people who need our help.”
Per the Ad Council’s model, all PSAs will run in advertising time and space entirely donated by the media. Since the launch of the Hunger Prevention campaign, media outlets across the country have donated more than $373 million in support for the PSAs.
