Lauren Bush and UN food agency launch new initiative to help schoolchildren

The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and its Honorary Spokesperson Lauren Bush today launched a new initiative aimed at helping feed poor schoolchildren around the world while creating greater awareness of global hunger.

The scheme involves sales of “FEED Bag,” a “stylish but sturdy tote bag designed by

Lauren Bush,” the agency said in a press release.

Available on www.amazon.com/feed, proceeds from each sale will feed a child at school for an entire academic year.

Ms. Bush created the FEED Bag after visiting a number of WFP operations in Africa, Asia and Latin America during her three years as a WFP Honorary Spokesperson.

Sold through for $59.95, the reversible burlap/natural muslin bag was inspired by WFP bags which carry grain, often for life-saving operations. The bag's burlap side is stamped “FEED the Children of the World” and a “1,” signifying that the proceeds will feed one child at school for one year.

Research has shown that school meals can increase class attendance by 100 per cent and improve performance significantly, said WFP, pointing out that for many children, the lunchtime meal may be the only one they will receive all day. In 2005, the agency fed 21.7 million children in 74 countries.