Supporters Gather for Bread’s 20th Annual Gala to End Hunger 

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On Tuesday, May 9, Bread for the World held its 20th Annual Gala to End Hunger – The Power of Perseverance, at the Yale Club of New York City. The event is Bread’s signature fundraiser and an annual gathering for some of the organization’s longest serving members. This year’s gala highlighted the impact Bread members and supporters have made on the lives of millions of people around the world.  

The gala was co-emceed by Bread President and CEO Rev. Eugene Cho and Managing Director Min. Heather Taylor. Governor David Beasley, former executive director of the United Nations World Food Programme, gave the keynote speech, delivering inspiring remarks and reminding guests to take advantage of their Power of Perseverance, this year’s theme. He encouraged attendees to be a match of light and hope that shines around the world in the face of hunger.  

U.S. Representative Marc Molinaro (R-NY), who serves on the House Committee on Agriculture, joined the gala virtually and provided remarks on top Bread priorities including the Farm Bill and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Bread presented its 2023 Reverend Art Simon Award for Faithful Service to End Hunger to another Bread member and supporter, Chang Park. The award is given to members and supporters who have demonstrated years of commitment to Bread in the areas of leadership, fundraising, and activism. In his remarks, Mr. Park stated, “We need Bread for the World for the poor and hungry people in this country and abroad. And we need Bread to reduce people’s suffering and give them hope and help them fulfill their full potential.” 

For the second year, the gala highlighted the important work of key partners during the Impactful Partner Spotlight. This year’s spotlight highlighted Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA). IRSUSA has long been a key partner in our advocacy towards a world without hunger and recently joined Bread in co-hosting An Interfaith Voice on Hunger: the 2023 Farm Bill event and our reception for the White House Hunger Conference.

Long-time Gala to End Hunger host committee member Adele Cahill provided remarks about the history of the gala in celebration of the event’s 20th anniversary. She mentioned several notable speakers from years past including former Secretary of the Treasury Robert Rubin, Dr. and First Lady Jill Biden, and then-Vice President Joe Biden. Joe Martingale, who was also one of the original organizers of the gala as well as the recipient of the 2022 Rev. Art Simon Award for Faithful Service to End Hunger, led us in prayer.

For those who attended the Gala – thank you! Your financial support allows us to continue our faithful advocacy towards a world without hunger. If you weren’t at the Gala, you can still donate to Bread for the World and Bread for the World Institute!

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