Attributed to Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America
Surely people across the country woke this morning with a sense of relief, knowing that paychecks and an essential lifeline to nutrition have been restored. The Feeding America network stands with them in that relief and will remain by their sides as they recover and rebuild. We know from history and from what we have already heard from people facing hunger that recovery from setbacks and disruptions requires determination and persistence. Reopening the government will not instantly reset lives or businesses, large or small, to where they were before it began, nor will it fully address the needs of tens of millions of people already experiencing food insecurity. I am hopeful that we can continue this critical national conversation about SNAP.
SNAP, though imperfect, is a powerhouse benefit, delivering $1.50 in economic activity for every taxpayer dollar spent. It provides dignified access to nutritious food to children, veterans, people with disabilities, seniors on fixed incomes, and people who need it from all corners of the country in all 50 states. SNAP also supports local economies, particularly rural and independent retail stores who serve communities where fresh food can be hard to come by and who rely on customers who rely on SNAP. And of course, SNAP matters deeply to the farmers, growers, producers and ranchers in this country who pride themselves on making sure we all have access to nutritious food.
This moment must remind us that turning off SNAP for more than 40 million people hurts all of us. Food should never be used as a bargaining chip. We can make SNAP stronger, and the people who rely on it should have a seat at the table as we work to improve it. Because it’s about so much more than filling individual plates, it is about building strong, resilient communities where everyone has an opportunity to thrive.
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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.