In response to Lisa McGinley’s article, “Inflate generosity,” (Nov. 26), I agree that being poor is no fun. However, the U.S. has the lowest food cost to income in the world.

Where does the claim that 16.1% of children are food insecure come from; is it valid? A child in school receives two free meals a day.

The biggest problem with food in the U.S. is that we eat too much. Obesity is our number one health issue, and millions of people cannot work a full day because of it.

When I was young Friendly’s was famous for their plain “big” four-ounce hamburger. Now all you see advertised on TV is a double cheeseburger with bacon.

In my entire life I have never met a person in this country who is suffering from the effects of malnutrition. In many areas of Guatemala up to 50% of children experience stunted mental and physical problems because of this issue.

I understand and applaud the good people who work at Christmas food kitchens. However, the people you mention that work to solve the underlying problems that cause poverty are doing the most important work.

P.S. When you travel remember to tip the hotel’s housekeepers.

Tom Sullivan

Ledyard