News In Brief

Kennedy, citing hunger in US, proposes a drive

Sen, Edward M. Kennedy (D) of Massachusetts said Thursday there is "clear, undeniable, and authoritative evidence" of hunger in America, referring to recent comments by presidential couselor Edwin Meese III that there was no such evidence. Mr. Kennedy released a report based on a six-day tour around the country which he said documents widespread and increasing US hunger. The report proposes a $2.5 billion program to attack hunger, including a 10 percent increase in food stamp benefits and more funding for child nutrition programs and for providing home-delivered meals to the elderly.