Statement attributed to Kate Leone, Chief Government Relations Officer
“As the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, Feeding America is relieved to see some progress on economic relief legislation in Congress. Our network of member food banks across the country are witnessing unprecedented and sustained increases in demand for charitable food assistance. As always, and especially during this crisis, the simple truth is that charity alone cannot solve food insecurity. The bipartisan bill unveiled includes investments in nutrition assistance that will help, though more relief will certainly be necessary in the very near future. Nevertheless, the Emergency COVID Relief Act of 2020 represents bipartisan progress, and we ask Congress to provide this urgently needed emergency nutrition assistance for millions of people nationwide.
“Feeding America’s network of 200 member food banks and 60,000 partner food pantries and meal programs provide food assistance to meet the urgent need found in every county in this country. Families are making impossible decisions between paying the rent and putting food on the table while food banks are working tirelessly to keep up with the increased need. Communities in both red and blue states need immediate action from Congress. Legislation to increase benefits in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and provide more nutritious food to the charitable food system through The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) cannot wait. The Emergency COVID Relief Act of 2020 would provide limited but immediate help to bridge the gap we face during the coming weeks.
“This short-term legislation is critical to ensuring families and children have enough to eat this holiday season. Our nation is facing unimaginable challenges, and we will need continued bipartisan congressional agreement to provide the necessary support to help families and our economy weather this unprecedented pandemic. We urge Congress to pass a stimulus relief package that will support food-insecure households and take action to ensure food banks continue to have food to help as many families in need as possible.”
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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.