Pizza Hut stores across Australia are getting behind World Hunger Relief this September, actively raising funds as part of the company’s long-standing commitment to the United Nations’ World Food Programme.

The pizza franchise chain’s parent company Yum! Brands has been supporting World Hunger Relief since the initiative launched in October 2007. It is the world’s largest private sector hunger relief initiative, spanning 110 countries, 38,000 KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurants and over one million employees.

Pizza Hut covers the administrative costs associated with World Hunger Relief so that 100 per cent of funds raised go directly to feeding people.

 World Hunger Relief aims to raise awareness and funds, and encourage volunteers for the World Food Programme, which feeds more than 90 million people worldwide in more than 70 countries, and other hunger relief agencies.

Pizza Hut Australia’s general manager Graeme Houston said “Hunger is a very real and serious global crisis. Providing hunger relief through a global movement such as World Hunger Relief is a significant step towards making a positive impact on the communities affected around the world.

“We’re hoping the Australian community will get behind this important initiative to increase awareness and contribute to making a difference worldwide.”

Multi-Grammy Award winner and global ambassador for World Hunger Relief Christina Aguilera said “It’s unbelievable that there are nearly one billion hungry people in the world and I hope to inspire others to use their voice for good and join Yum! Brands World Hunger Relief.”

Statistics surrounding world hunger are astounding:

• More people die of hunger every year than from AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined.
• Nearly one billion people suffer from hunger and malnutrition.
• Malnutrition prevents children from reaching their full developmental and cognitive potential.
• A third of all deaths in children under age five in developing countries are linked to undernutrition.
• Hunger (underweight) is number one on the list of the world’s top 10 health risks.
• One in seven people goes to bed hungry each night.

Donations for the charitable cause can be made throughout September in-store or by visiting www.pizzahut.com.au.