A resolution designating Thursday, November 15, 2007, as "Feed America Thursday".

Mr. President, I wish to speak regarding an effort that, in recent years, has received the support of many of us in the Senate. ``Feed America Thursday'' is an effort, promoted by a number of charitable organizations, aimed at fostering our Nation's spirit of selflessness and sacrifice in order to help those in need.

According to the Department of Agriculture's most recent numbers, roughly 35 million Americans, including 12 million children, live in households that do not have an adequate supply of food. As I have said in the past, it is simply inexcusable that, in the most prosperous nation on Earth, so many children go to bed hungry at night. While there are often disputes as to how we should address these problems, I believe there are steps that every American can take to help those in need.

The leaders and participants in ``Feed America Thursday'' encourage all Americans to sacrifice two meals on the Thursday before Thanksgiving Day and to donate the money they would have used for food to a charity or religious organization of their choice. The charities and churches, in turn, are encouraged to use these funds to feed the hungry.

Today, as I have in previous Congresses, I introduced a resolution that would designate this Thursday, November 15, 2007, as ``Feed America Thursday.'' I urge my Senate colleagues and every American to join me in feeding the hungry and affirming the values that make our Nation great.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate now proceed to the consideration of S. Res. 379, which was submitted earlier today.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, and the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table.