WASHINGTON (JTA) — The Jewish Council for Public Affairs is appealing to Jewish Americans to join a challenge to live on $29.40 for a week to bring attention to the 45 million Americans who live on food stamps.

The annual December appeal by the policy umbrella, through JCRCs and synagogues, has in the past helped raise awareness about hunger by including as participants leading federal and state lawmakers and Cabinet members, as well as clergy and grassroots Jewish activists.

This year, Melissa Rogers, the top White House official dealing with faith-based partnerships, is participating.