Statement Attributed to Vince Hall, Chief Government Relations Officer
“As the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization, we are reminded every day that the long-term economic impacts of the pandemic are not over. That’s why we are asking Congress to extend child nutrition waiver authority through at least the end of the next school year.
“Originally granted as part of the pandemic response to ensure access to meals for children in need during the school year and in the summertime, the child nutrition waivers remain essential to addressing child food insecurity, particularly amid supply chain disruptions. Without action by Congress, these critical waivers will expire at the end of June, in the middle of summer.
“As it stands, schools and communities are in a state of limbo. As they work to provide food for children daily, they need continued flexibilities to safely plan for and offer summer meal programs and nutrition assistance during the next school year. Congress can and should provide these schools and community providers with peace of mind by extending waiver authority in upcoming legislation.
“For millions of school children whose lives and educations have been impacted by the pandemic, school meals are often their only reliable nutrition source. These waivers offer stability, predictability, and an assurance that children will get the meals they need any time of the year.”
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About Feeding America
Feeding America is committed to an America where no one is hungry. We support tens of millions of people who experience food insecurity to get the food and resources they say they need to thrive as part of a nationwide network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries and meal programs. We also invest in innovative solutions to increase equitable access to nutritious food, advocate for legislation that improves food security and work to address factors that impact food security, such as health, cost of living and employment. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations, and supporters, united with them in a movement to end hunger. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.