When hunger strikes across the globe, there’s an organization that steps in to take action. The Food and Agriculture Organization celebrated its birthday this week.

On October 16, 1945, representatives from over 30 countries met at the grand Château Frontenac in Quebec City to tackle the big stuff— and we don't mean maple syrup and ice hockey. What was founded was the FAO, a United Nations agency with a mission to defeat hunger by improving agriculture, forestry, and fishery practices worldwide.

Fast-forward to the 1980s and we have the FAO’s first World Food Day on October 16. This year’s theme was “Food Prices — From Crisis To Stability,” shedding light on the upswing in food prices and its impact on the poor.

Sixty-six years and going strong. In a recent project, the FAO helped Pakistani families affected by the 2010 floods by repairing irrigation systems and providing livestock support. The organization also partnered with the 1billionhungry project, which petitions governments to take action against world hunger.

The FAO’s motto, fiat panis, translates to "let there be bread,” which carries the hopeful message that one day, there will be enough food for everyone on the planet. To help achieve this goal, stay informed about the World Food Crisis, and learn ways to get involved!