To survive, people must eat. Unfortunately, the food necessary for survival is not always available, safe or nutritious for individuals, families, consumers and communities. The implementation of public policies is essential to alleviate some of the problems associated with the nation's food supply. By gaining awareness of public policy issues impacting society and effecting change through public policy formation, FCS nutrition professionals can improve the health and well-being of the nation. When FCS professionals become aware of public policies related to their professional specialization, the overall message or underlying purpose of the profession is better received by the public. In 1917, in the midst of World War I, the American Dietetic Association (ADA) was founded with the intent to “assist the government in conserving food and improving public health and nutrition” (Smith & Patrick, 2008) . Throughout the years following World War I, the ADA remained involved in public issues surrounding food and nutrition. According to Smith & Patrick (2008), the ADA worked with government officials to ensure food safety during the Great Depression; During World War II, the ADA sent dietitians as public health officers to ensure that some American soldiers were adequately fed. The ADA's involvement in causes that affect so many people strengthens its purpose and credibility. Over the past year, the ADA has lobbied hard to have preventative nutrition care included in the health care reform bill. From its modest beginnings to the present day, the ADA continues to research public policy issues and educate its members so that a clear, cohesive message can be presented... middle of the paper... professionals listen to the public and defend 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 that 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., & Patrick, S. (2008). Growing on the public policy roots of the ADA. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 108(12), 1988-1990. Smith, R. (2009). ADA and health care reform. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 109(7), 1157-1159. Wansink, B. (2006). American Dietetic Association position: misinformation about food and nutrition. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 106(4), 601-607.