Hunger in a Season of Feasts : Federal and local answers must be found for a problem that afflicts millions in U.S.

The holiday season is celebrated with feasts, yet nearly 30 million Americans go hungry every day, according to a study from Bread for the World, a Washington-based lobbying group. The more fortunate among poor families will enjoy a little seasonal generosity: a food basket provided by a charity or church; a festive meal provided by a soup kitchen. These meals, though decent, will not cure hunger.

Hunger is routine at least once a month for as many as one out of eight youngsters under the age of 12, according to a report by the Food Research & Action Center, a Washington-based advocacy group. Many families go hungry the last five days of the month especially if the welfare check and food stamps run out, according to a study by UCLA’s School of Architecture and Urban Design. The lack of food can have severe consequences.

Hungry children typically have trouble learning. They can’t concentrate. They are irritable. They suffer frequently from dizziness, fatigue, colds and ear infections. The consequences are even more severe when the deprivation is prolonged.

How can Americans starve in a country that spends billions of dollars on federal food programs such as food stamps, free school lunches and breakfasts as well as nutrition for pregnant women and infants? These safety nets work but some families are too proud to accept help. Among those who do, too many cannot stretch the meager resources an entire month. And many homeless men and women who don’t even have mailboxes have difficulty collecting even the most meager benefits.

Unemployment, the recession and declining wages coupled with the high cost of housing and reductions in welfare put greater pressure on providing for a family. Poor families also tend to live in crime-ridden neighborhoods that lack major grocery stores and other services, so even when they have money they must travel greater distances and pay higher prices for food.

Not surprisingly, demand has jumped at area soup kitchens and pantries. Though rare 15 years ago, these feeding programs now do turn-away business and those who are turned away must do without.

Reducing hunger is a national challenge. Washington is likely to help. The Clinton Administration may be more inclined to expand the food stamp program and other benefits than the two preceding Republican administrations. But hungry children need a good meal today. Each of us should help.