The Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs held hearings on the "Food Distribution Program." The Program--often referred to as the "commodity distribution,""surplus distribution," or "direct distribution program"--has the dual purpose of alleviating farm surpluses and helping the poor. It presently feeds about 3.6 million Americans living in about 1,000 counties and cities. It is an out-growth of farm-oriented legislation which was developed in the mid-1930's. The program reached its peak levels after World War II. Since the early 1960's, it has been overshadowed by the Food Stamp Program, which now reaches about 10.5 million people. The Committee believes that the Food Distribution Program is fraught with problems and difficulties. First, the testimony of recipients is recorded. Secondly, members of the private food sector describe what is wrong with the program as it now exists; and, thirdly, is recorded how it might be substantially improved. In addition, state and local administrators give reports on the functioning of their programs. In the appendix, materials submitted by witnesses are included, as are relevant newspaper articles. (Author/JW)