With more than 17 million American households living below the poverty line, Convoy of Hope is working to meet the problem head-on.

The ministry has touched more than 51 million people worldwide through its food aid, disaster relief and other community outreach.

This past weekend in Dallas, Convoy of Hope kicked off its first two-year tour across the U.S.

"This is a time when a moment turns into a movement," Ron Showers, community outreach director for Convoy of Hope, said at the event.

Hundreds of local residents filed in for free food, health screenings and haircuts. The ministry also offered prayer and even free shoes to the needy.

The Convoy of Hope nationwide tour will unite local businesses, churches and non-profits to end poverty.

Hal Donaldson was inspired to start the Convoy of Hope ministry after a car accident killed his dad and left his mom unable to care for him and his siblings.

The community and local churches helped Donaldson's family by giving them food and shelter -- just as Convoy of Hope does today.