Statement Attributed to Vince Hall, Interim Chief Government Relations Officer
“Feeding America, the largest hunger-relief organization in the country, applauds the Biden Administration’s bold proposals to invest in Summer EBT to help end summer hunger for children in need, address a historically punitive policy that bans formerly incarcerated people from receiving SNAP benefits and extend recent improvements to the Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit, which will help cut child poverty by 50 percent. These critical investments, particularly those focused on ending child hunger and lifting out of poverty, will help many children learn and thrive as we build toward a healthier and brighter future.
“The American Families Plan contains important provisions to address child food insecurity, including a momentous proposal to make Summer EBT permanent and available to all 29 million children receiving free and reduced-price meals. The current Pandemic-EBT program and previous Summer EBT efforts have proven efficient and effective at reducing food insecurity and improving health. Additionally, the plan proposes key improvements that will increase access to free school meals for children in high-poverty districts, benefiting families as well as program operators. It also includes $1 billion to support schools expanding healthy food offerings. The plan also indicates support for providing SNAP benefits to formerly incarcerated individuals convicted of drug-related felonies, offering more equitable access to nutrition assistance as individuals work through reentry.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the administration and Congressional leaders to ensure that the families we serve are able to put meals on the table during this crisis and beyond. It is only through a strong partnership between government, the private sector, and charities that we will end hunger in this country.”
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About Feeding America
Rooted in the voices of neighbors facing hunger, Feeding America unites the country ensuring everyone has access to food and a thriving future. We support tens of millions of people as part of a nationwide network of 250+ food banks, 20+ statewide food bank associations, 10+ regional co-ops and 60,000+ agency partners, food pantries and meal programs. Powered by leaders and volunteers embedded in local communities, we are one of the nation’s most effective food distribution systems driving immediate impact today—and a catalyst for long-term change through advocating for legislation that improves food security and work to address its factors. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations and supporters united with the unwavering commitment to provide nourishing food and work to end hunger at its roots so everyone can live fuller, healthier lives. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.