New 'Sesame Street' Muppet for special on hunger

[October 06, 2011]  NEW YORK (AP) -- "Sesame Street" is getting a new Muppet -- at least for a night.

The children's show is introducing a new puppet character named Lily for special on Sunday that talks to children about poverty and hunger.

Lily is a 7-year-old who talks to viewers about insecurity over whether her family will have enough to eat. The puppet goes to a pantry for food and also volunteers there.

"Sesame Street" executive Jeanette Betancourt says the show invents new Muppets occasionally, usually to help illustrate particular social issues. Four years ago a Muppet was created for a special on military families at a time of war.

Country star Brad Paisley is host of Sunday's special, called "Growing Hope Against Hunger."

[Associated Press]

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