With the American Express "Million Meals" hunger-relief program, college students nationwide can now aid the hunger-relief campaign simply by using their American Express cards.

American Express has teamed up with Share Our Strength (SOS), a non-profit hunger-relief organization in Washington, D.C., in response to students' growing concern about social issues, said Andy Seibert, senior manager in the student marketing group at American Express.

Until April 30, American Express will donate 9 cents to SOS every time a student cardholder makes a purchase with an American Express card. American Express plans to pay for a total of 1 million meals.

"I'm sure we're going to hit the million-meal mark, but we're not keeping a tally," said Marcos Rada, an American Express representative.

Seibert said the program is a way for student cardholders to make a difference in the world.

"We are trying to feed a million people, but more, we are trying to get students involved," Seibert said.

But one student said the hunger-relief donations would not prompt her to apply for a card.

"I would be interested in getting an American Express Card only if the annual $50 charge went to feed the hungry," said Umutoni Ibabaza (freshman-mathematics).

Unlike many relief organizations, SOS uses "creative professionals" who donate their work to help the hungry, said Christine Parker, a senior at George Washington University. She manages SOS's farmer's market booth in Washington, D.C., which collects surplus produce and matches it with soup kitchens and homeless shelters. She also said she helps sell books to raise awareness for hunger relief throughout the country.

"I sell products that help raise awareness, and at the end of the day I collect all of this food," Parker said. "American Express and SOS have teamed up and basically found an easy way to battle hunger."

According to American Express guidelines for the program, eligible students are American Express cardholders who are enrolled at a college or university and applied through the company's student card program.

One Penn State student recognized the importance of promoting awareness for hunger relief.

"It's nice to see that this corporation is taking such an initiative; however, the fact must not be forgotten that this is only a start," said Rebecca Gallay (sophomore-environmental resource management).