Answer to Question 1
The availability of and access to food are often limited by civil strife, war, and political unrest. Political turmoil can displace millions of people from their homes and force them to relocate to crude facilities set up for refugees. In countries with large refugee populations (such as Turkey, Pakistan, and Lebanon), food insecurity and malnutrition are rampant. According to the United Nations (UN), those living in refugee camps have the highest rates of disease and malnutrition of any group worldwide. Because of the danger and logistical problems associated with political unrest, it can be difficult for relief agencies to provide much-needed aid to innocent civilians. Despite recent progress made by repatriation movements, the number of refugees is once again on the rise. Mainly attributable to violence taking place in the Middle East, the worldwide number of forcibly displaced persons is approaching 60 million. During 2014, an average of 42,500 individuals were forced to leave their homes and seek protection elsewhere, either within the borders of their own country or within other countries.
Answer to Question 2
Millions of women, infants, and children in the United States benefit from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). This federally funded program, administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, assists pregnant women and families with young children in making nutritious food purchases. Individuals enrolled in WIC receive coupons that can be used to buy a variety of WIC-approved, nutrient-dense foods such as peanut butter, milk, rice, beans, cereal, and canned tuna. Many farmers' markets accept WIC coupons, allowing parents to purchase a variety of fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. In addition to subsidizing food purchases, WIC provides health assistance and nutrition education to eligible women, young infants, and children. WIC's educational programs encourage exclusive breastfeeding and other optimal infant feeding guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
