U.S. Charity Accelerating Plans Due to Recession

It also has increased its public relations efforts to raise public awareness, receiving prominent mention on such popular TV shows as NBC's "The Biggest Loser," Escarra said. Its entertainment council includes such actors as Ben Affleck and Matt Damon, chef Mario Batali and musician Josh Groban.

The charity also is pushing for better tax credits for companies that donate foods, and reauthorization of an act that provides free and reduced-cost food programs for children.