We can’t end hunger in the U.S. and around the world unless we elect leaders who make this a priority.
Introduction
Elections matter for ending hunger. Public policy affects whether our neighbors can eat, work, and thrive. The leaders we choose shape policies that create jobs, strengthen the safety net, invest in communities, and support global efforts that reduce poverty. In short: public policy affects hunger; elections shape public policy; therefore elections shape hunger.
Scriptural Reflection
Scripture inextricably ties governance to justice. Governing authority is meant to promote good and restrain harm (Romans 13:1–4, NRSV). Leaders are called to protect those most at risk (Psalm 72:12–14, NRSV), to show no partiality (Leviticus 19:15, NRSV; James 2:2–4, NRSV), and to “speak out… defend the rights of the poor and needy” (Proverbs 31:8–9, NRSV). Our posture is summed up in Micah’s charge: do justice, love kindness, walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8, NRSV).
Grace is our motivation, not an escape from responsibility. “Since we are justified by faith…we have peace with God” and “stand in grace”(Romans 5:1–2, NRSV). That grace frees us from fear and empowers us to respond to that grace by acting for others. Grace is not passive; it propels faithful action—advocating for justice, including through our participation in elections.
Scripture also gives concrete examples of faithful engagement in imperfect systems. Nehemiah used his role to secure resources and rebuild a city (Nehemiah 2:1–9, NRSV). Joseph stewarded public administration to prevent famine and save lives (Genesis 41, NRSV). Wise leadership, exercised well, changes material outcomes for communities.
From Reflection to Action
In a democracy, “we the people” share responsibility for choosing wise and just leaders. As Christians, we use our voices and our votes as an expression of loving our neighbor (see Matthew 25:40, NRSV). This is stewardship of influence, time, and resources.
We are nonpartisan. We don’t endorse candidates or parties. We urge policies that measurably reduce hunger—close to home and around the globe.
Connecting Civic Action to Anti-Hunger Impact
Our election engagement complements our ongoing advocacy with Congress. When we evaluate candidates through an anti-hunger lens and vote accordingly, we help secure outcomes like:
- Strong nutrition programs (SNAP, WIC, child nutrition and school meals).
- Effective international food security and nutrition assistance.
- Policies that address root causes of hunger (wages, employment, conflict, climate impacts, inequities).
Advocacy works. Alongside churches and charities, the U.S. government has the scale to make a historic impact on hunger. Federal nutrition programs provide roughly ten times as much food assistance as private churches and charities combined.
Civic engagement strengthens democracy—especially in times of challenge. By engaging our elected leaders through advocacy and the electoral process, we help ensure they remain accountable to the democratic principles set forth in the Constitution.
What You Can Do
Speak Up
Advocacy works. Members of Congress listen to constituents who raise their voices, and your advocacy can help make hunger a problem of the past. Nearly one in ten people around the world goes to bed hungry each night—but hunger is solvable when we act together.
Advocate with Congress
Congress has the power to protect and expand the programs that help families put food on the table. Let your elected leaders know hunger is a top priority. Meet with them, share your story, and make it clear that federal nutrition programs must be strengthened, not cut.
Write to Congress
Personalized letters and emails stand out. They show senators and representatives that their constituents truly care. Join Bread’s Offering of Letters—our nationwide campaign where churches and communities write thousands of letters urging Congress to protect SNAP, WIC, and global nutrition programs. Together, these letters make a real impact.
Write a letter today at bread.org/ActNowSpeak Out on Social Media
Use your platform to make hunger impossible to ignore. Follow Bread for the World on social media and share our resources, post about the policies that matter, and tag your senators and representatives so they know where you stand.
Mobilize Your Community
Invite candidates to your church or community gathering. Write an op-ed or letter calling for stronger hunger programs. Share Bread’s action alerts and resources so your network can raise their voices alongside yours. When communities speak with one strong, united voice, leaders take notice.
Pray
Pray for candidates and public servants
—that they would uphold justice and care for people who are poor and vulnerable in the U.S. and around the world.
Pray for everyone participating in the election process
Ask that Christians exemplify humility, grace, and courage.
You can sign up to join the Bread for the World prayer community at bread.org/PrayNow
Give
Invest in advocacy
that moves decision makers. Your support helps turn community voices into policy change that reduces hunger.
Give today at bread.org/GiveToEndHunger
Prayer
O God, our Creator,
through our elected leaders and our government, you sustain all you have made.
We pray for those seeking office in our country. Grant them integrity and wisdom to strengthen good governance and expand opportunity for people in need.
Give us courage to challenge candidates to address hunger and poverty.
As we prepare to vote, guide us by your vision of love, justice, and mercy.
In Christ’s name we pray.
Amen.
What Is Bread for the World?
Bread for the World is a Christian advocacy organization urging U.S. decision makers to strive for a world without hunger. We educate and equip people to advocate for policies and programs that end hunger in the U.S. and around the world. We work nonpartisan and in concert with churches and charities, elevating the leadership of those most affected by hunger and reflecting the diversity of Christian traditions in our nation.
Speak up with us, pray with us, and give to fuel change.
For biweekly prayers focused on ending hunger, visit bread.org/PrayNow.
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