Edwards Urges Action to Fund Food Programs

"This is an issue that we can actually do something about," Edwards said.

He announced the plan shortly before a scheduled appearance at a food bank in Carrboro.

"What we're doing is encouraging Americans to take action," Edwards told WRAL's Bruce Mildwurf.

Edwards' proposal urges Congress to pass a farm bill that would provide food stamps and support food banks.

The former North Carolina senator said he would help low-income children get more access to healthy meals and support programs that provide meals for the elderly.

More than 35.5 million people in the United States went hungry in 2006, according to a Department of Agriculture study.

With the Iowa caucus less than a month and a half away, it is a busy time for Edwards.

"I'll be working virtually everyday. I may take a few hours here and there, but it's a brutal schedule," Edwards said.

The latest Iowa polls show presidential candidates Barack Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton and Edwards within eight percentage points.

"Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, South Carolina all are crucial to all of us," Edwards said.

Edwards won't take part in Michigan's presidential primary. He was one of five Democrats who pulled out when the state announced its move to January. Clinton was the only front-runner who remained on the ballot.