A Lutheran minister is being recognized for his contribution to end world hunger.

Rev. David Beckmann left his job at the World Bank to lead the Bread for the World organization.

Wednesday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton awarded him with the 2010 World Food Prize.

The honor was given for his organization's efforts to change U.S. policy to improve global food supplies and expand access to food.

The prize is often awarded to scientists and is accompanied by a $250,000 check.

Beckmann hopes the honor will encourage more people at the grassroots level to get involved in fighting hunger around the world.

Under his leadership, Bread for the World membership has grown by nearly 30,000.