To survive, people need to eat. Unfortunately, the food necessary for survival is not always available, safe or nutritious for individuals, families, consumers and communities. Implementing public policies is essential to alleviate some of the problems associated with the country's food supply. By becoming aware of public policy issues that impact society and driving change through public policy development, FCS professionals in the field of nutrition can improve the health and well-being of the population. nation. When FCS professionals become aware of public policies related to their professional specialization, the overall message or underlying goal of the profession is better received by the public. In 1917, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) was founded in the midst of World War I to “assist the government in preserving food and improving public health and nutrition” (Smith and Patrick, 2008). Throughout the years following World War I, the ADA remained involved in public issues related to food and nutrition. According to Smith and Patrick (2008), the ADA worked with government officials to ensure food security during the Great Depression; During World War II, the ADA sent dietitians as Public Health Service officers to ensure that American soldiers were properly fed. The ADA's involvement in causes that affect so many people reinforces its purpose and credibility. Over the past year, the ADA has fervently lobbied for preventative nutrition care to be included in the health care reform bill. From its humble beginnings to today, the ADA continues to research public policy issues and educate its members so that a clear and consistent message can be presented...... middle of paper .. .... professionals listen to the public and advocate for the needs of individuals, families, consumers and communities. Their commitment to the public will not only help improve the lives of this current generation but also those of future generations. Works Cited Matthews, D. (2004). Changing communities through public engagement. In C. Anderson's Family and Community Politics: Strategies for Civic Engagement (19-29). American Home Economics Association. Smith, J. and Patrick, S. (2008). Expanding on the public policy roots of ADA. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 108(12), 1988-1990. Smith, R. (2009). ADA and health reform. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 109(7), 1157-1159. Wansink, B. (2006). Position of the American Dietetic Association: Misinformation about food and nutrition. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 106(4), 601-607.