Today, a Chicago-area motorcyclist is embarking on a cross-country trek, visiting Jewish-style delis in nearly every state to call attention to the persistent hunger crisis in the United States that has been exacerbated by the pandemic.

At 11:30 a.m., Steve Goode began the more than 16,000-mile “Great American Deli Schlep” at Manny’s Deli in Chicago. Goode, whose trip will run through the summer, is partnering with MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger to raise awareness and funds for the organization’s fight to end hunger in the United States and Israel through structural policy change.

The “Great American Deli Schlep” was inspired by “The Top Jewish Deli in Every State” as developed by The Nosher, a project of 70 Faces Media focused on “Jewish foods with a modern twist.” At each of the delis, Goode will enjoy a meal with local deli owners and patrons and discuss the hunger crisis and how to take action for structural change. One of his last stops planned is Protzel’s Deli in Clayton when he comes through St. Louis in August.

Across the United States, one in four people are currently experiencing hunger — a crisis that has doubled from 40 million people to 80 million as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

More information on Goode’s Great American Deli Schlep, including his planned itinerary, can be found on MAZON’s website.