Think of the hungry while giving thanks

Thanksgiving is a special time to gather with family and friends to enjoy a delicious meal and give thanks for the blessings in our lives. However, let us remember as we sit down to dinner that one billion people worldwide-nearly a sixth of the world's population - still never get the chance to enjoy anything resembling such a meal.

As an American and proud ONE member, I ask that this Thanksgiving, we make food security and agriculture in the developing world a priority to ensure that no one is forced to go hungry in a world of plenty.

The ONE Campaign is a grass-roots campaign and advocacy organization backed by more than 2 million people who are committed to the fight against extreme poverty and preventable disease, particularly in Africa.

The good news is we know how to fight hunger better than ever before: by investing in agriculture on the ground.

Nearly two out of every three people in sub-Saharan Africa works in agriculture, and yet the continent still suffers some of the most severe famines on earth. Through investing in better seeds, infrastructure, training, and by forging better trade policies, the world can help poor farmers in the developing world earn their way out of poverty.

By unleashing the potential of Africa's farmers, more of Africa's poor will not only be able to feed their families and communities, but also afford better education, health care and housing. As you join family and friends this Thanksgiving, please remember to encourage our leaders to follow through on our modest commitments to fight against global hunger.

Together, we can help end needless hunger and ensure that everyone worldwide has more to be thankful for this holiday season.

Jenna Liao

Wheaton