Famine has affected various parts of the world very deeply. It has left marked passages in history detailing the many lives that wither away due to starvation. Even the richest of people in a country can be affected by famine and driven into poverty.

The most famous example of famine in history is that of the Irish Potato Famine. The Potato was Ireland's main crop, on which it based much of its wealth and trading power. As long as the potato was a vibrant, healthy crop, Ireland enjoyed riches and success. However, in 1845, after a few years of bad harvests, famine started to spread throughout the country. Ireland's economy depended heavily on agriculture, and the potato was their leading crop. Without it, Ireland's citizens were left to starve. By the year 1851, an estimated 2.5 million people had died due to the Potato Famine. ( The Potato Famine in History - Conrad Jay Bladely)

Famine is an especially shocking way to become homeless because people that were once rich are forced to adapt not only to living without extravagance, but to living without the simple pleasures of life such as food and drink.

There are many ways that we can help to solve the plight of famine. One very well-known campaign to end hunger is the 30 Hour Famine. Students, teachers, and working professionals are all encouraged to partake in this fundraising event. Participants volunteer to feel the effects of famine by going for a chosen amount of time without food. This can range from skipping one meal to not eating for 30 hours. Participants gain sponsors who pledge varying amounts of money to them if they fulfill their famine promise. This money in turn benefits people around the world who suffer from the effects of famine daily.

If what you've read so far still isn't enough, these facts from World Vision may help you to truly see the evils of starvation:

35, 000 children die EVERY DAY from hunger, malnutrition, and disease.
A mere $8.00 feeds two hungry children for more than one full week.
$50.00 helps a formerly homeless family stock the kitchen of its new residence.
$60.00 provides enough Vitamin A to prevent blindness, diarrheal diseases, measles, and pneumonia in 20 children.
One child dies approximately every 3 seconds due to famine.

We've let famine continue for far too long a time already, it's time that we all step in and do our share to end one of the greatest evils that exists today.