Oxfam America

Global Food Crisis

After years of remaining relatively stable, global food prices are being driven through the roof by a convergence of circumstances—including climate change, rising energy costs, and increased demand for biofuels. This phenomenon particularly affects poor people in developing countries, many of whom already spend 50 to 80 percent of their income on food. It’s estimated that 840 million people around the world are chronically hungry, and the shock of high prices will only increase world hunger.

What Oxfam is Doing

Oxfam is factoring higher food prices into the work we do at many different levels. In our humanitarian response, we are already employing a broad range of tools adapted to local conditions. more »

What You Can Do

Feature Stories

Haiti no Longer Grows Much of its Own Rice and Families Now go Hungry
Haiti no Longer Grows Much of its Own Rice and Families Now go Hungry
Oxfam is helping people in Haiti with a variety of programs, including supporting community subsidized restaurants.
Looking for Local Solutions, Oxfam Finds Some Answers to Food Crises
Looking for Local Solutions, Oxfam Finds Some Answers to Food Crises
In Gambia, Pakistan, and Niger, Oxfam and its local partners have responded to food shortages with tools adapted to local conditions.
As Food Prices Soar, Hunger and Unrest Prompt Global Concern
As Food Prices Soar, Hunger and Unrest Prompt Global Concern
A convergence of factors, including high energy and fertilizer costs, has sent global food prices spiraling upward, forcing families to make excruciating choices.
Deepening Droughts Hinder Efforts to Fight HIV/AIDS in South Africa
Deepening Droughts Hinder Efforts to Fight HIV/AIDS in South Africa
In rural Hluhluwe, a drier, hotter climate means fewer nutritious crops for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Vegetable Gardens, Orchards, and Literacy Classes Offer Hope for Afghans
Vegetable Gardens, Orchards, and Literacy Classes Offer Hope for Afghans
Gardens with an array of new vegetables have helped improve the nutrition of families and allowed them to save money.
Feeding a Nation
Feeding a Nation
Financial support from Oxfam is allowing our partner to teach farmers to raise rice yields and put extra profit to good use.

Donate to the Global Food Crisis Fund »

Oxfam America is working around the clock to address this crisis, and we need your help.

Host an Oxfam America Hunger Banquet® event »

The global food crisis is deepening the suffering of the more than 840 million people already plagued by chronic hunger. Education, awareness, and action are all critical to helping the people most affected.

Host an Oxfam America Hunger Banquet event in your school, community, faith congregation or business to engage others in this crisis.