There is little question in the minds of the American people that hunger. both domestic and foreign. has reached epidemic proportions. It is estimated that Africas food deficit in 1985 will amount to 4 million metric tons. Hundreds of thousands of Africans are at risk. and the movement of people to refugee camps seeking food has created a major crisis. There has been an outpouring of generosity from individuals. churches. and private organizations to help get food and medical aid to Ethiopia and other countries stricken by drought. H.R. 1239. which was passed by Congress last week and provided $1 billion in food assistance over a 2year period to Africa. is an important response to the immediate crisis.