A Political Solution to a Political Problem

How can a paper plate turn into money for hungry people? Ask any of the elementary-school students who have attended a hunger talk by Ed Payne. After using a variety of props to help the kids understand what's needed to end hunger, Payne has them write letters to their members of Congress on paper plates. Then, ta-da! The amateur magician makes the money appear in the folded plates – a direct result of the students' letter-writing advocacy.

Ed Payne (right) talks with fellow Bread for the World members at the opening session of the 2005 National Gathering.

Payne says that he had a revelation as well when he first learned about Bread for the World more than 25 years ago: 95 percent of global hunger is caused by political and economic decisions. So responding to hurricanes and other disasters, while vital, is only chipping away at five percent of the problem. The main solution to a largely political problem must be advocacy.

Payne has put this conviction to work as a long-time BFW activist and leader. He chairs a Bread for the World Minnesota steering committee that covers most of the state's congressional districts. The committee coordinates efforts in Minnesota with a newsletter, statewide workshops, district meetings and other activities.

Payne is also a familiar presence at Bread for the World's National Gatherings and Lobby Days. In fact, he frequently comes to the national office beforehand and helps staff finish preparations. He says that he has always drawn inspiration from the National Gatherings; most recently, he has been impressed by the growing number of students and young professionals drawn to the Emerging Leaders track at the events.

That’s not all that Payne does. He augments the impact of his activism by serving on the BFW Board of Directors and supporting our work financially. Outside Bread for the World but within the hunger advocacy community, he works to educate future pastors about hunger advocacy, heads the hunger committee at his 8,000-member Lutheran church, and chairs the Minneapolis ELCA Synod’s hunger committee.

Thank you to Ed Payne for his tireless efforts to get hungry people included in our country’s political agenda!

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