"The intent of the bill we passed was to create an active, working coalition of legislators and members of hunger advocacy groups to see what we can do as a State to help end hunger," said Senator Harmon. "Now that the appointments have been made, we can begin working together to explore how we can craft policy in a positive way to help people who are truly in need."

Harmon also expressed his admiration of Feeding Illinois and commended the group for its efforts to reduce hunger in Illinois. The organization consists of eight food banks working through a network of member agencies, community partners and corporate and government partners.

"If we’re serious about ending hunger, we need to do what we can to assist organizations like Feeding Illinois, which do such a tremendous job not only directly providing hungry people with food but also promoting awareness and educating the general public about how we can address hunger," Harmon said. "We can really learn a lot from their example and I hope to continue working with them in the future as a member of the commission."

Other legislative appointees to the Commission to End Hunger include Senator John Millner (R-Carol Stream), Representative Elizabeth Hernandez (D-Cicero), and Representative Patricia Bellock (R-Hinsdale). The Commission will also include representatives from the Offices of the Governor and Lt. Governor in addition to individuals from a variety of food banks and advocacy groups throughout the state.