Action Against Hunger Gala to Honor Humanitarian

NEW YORK, NY—In recognition of his long-standing commitment to the battle to eradicate rural poverty and hunger, Dr. Jacques Diouf, Director-General of the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO), will receive the annual Action Against Hunger Humanitarian Award on November 4th at the organization’s Annual Benefit Gala at Capitale in New York City. Action Against Hunger | ACF International applauds the UNFAO's new One Billion Hungry Project for engaging hundreds of thousands of people worldwide in combating global hunger.

The Action Against Hunger Humanitarian Award, now in its 10th year, recognizes individuals whose philanthropy, public awareness efforts, or direct work in emergency settings has contributed significantly to the humanitarian field. Past recipients include filmmaker Terry George, Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, President Nelson Mandela, journalist Anderson Cooper, actor Susan Sarandon, and the late author Frank McCourt, among others.

This year’s Benefit Gala also marks the launch of the 2010-2011 Financial Times Seasonal Appeal, taking place from November to mid-January. Action Against Hunger was selected as the news organization’s partner for the appeal, which raised nearly $8 million over the past four years for various organizations and causes.

This year’s Gala features the culinary talents of Executive Chef Jeremy Bearman and Executive Pastry Chef James DiStefano of Rouge Tomate (Michelin rated for the 2nd consecutive year), the epicurean contributions of Chef Andrew Gold and the Institute for Culinary Education, and super-premium spirits and signature cocktails provided by Ultimat Vodka, Patrón Tequila, and Pyrat Rum courtesy of the Patrón Spirits Company.

Also on November 4th, Action Against Hunger will honor a Field Staff Member of the Year for their life-saving work. Berthony Innocent is this year’s recipient for his work with earthquake survivors in Haiti.

Proceeds from the evening will support Action Against Hunger's humanitarian programs in over 40 countries around the world.

The Humanitarian Award

The 10th annual Action Against Hunger Humanitarian Award will be presented to Dr. Jacques Diouf, Director-General of the UNFAO at Action Against Hunger’s Annual Gala on November 4th at Capitale in New York City.