Statement attributed to Rebeckah Freeman Adcock, chief government relations officer at Feeding America
Across America, people work hard to provide for their families, yet too many face a widening gap between their paychecks and the cost of a healthy meal. As more people turn to food banks to bridge that gap, a bipartisan farm bill is the perfect opportunity to ensure neighbors can access food with dignity, while supporting the farmers whose work helps feed our communities.
The House’s passage of the farm bill is an important step in a longer process. As passed, the bill still falls short of providing the needed resources to meet the demand for food assistance to our neighbors facing hunger. The Senate now has the opportunity to strengthen the bill to ensure it supports people facing hunger and farmers. By deepening farm bill investments in our entire food system, Congress can provide a more reliable path to stability for the millions of seniors, children and rural families who count on these programs every day to stay healthy and food secure.
Once the bill moves to the Senate, our focus remains clear: We support a bipartisan farm bill that increases depleted resources for The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) so fresh food from farms reaches people facing hunger and delaying the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cost shift to the states to ensure SNAP remains an effective food stability tool for families as states implement changes to the program.
The farm bill is a lifeline for millions—from parents stretching a budget to farmers sustaining our food supply and supporting local economies. The federal nutrition programs it authorizes are a vital tool for community health and food security. The Feeding America network is committed to working with Congress to pass a version of the legislation that will strengthen local communities and better meet the needs of people facing hunger.
When we all work together alongside our neighbors facing hunger, we can build strong, resilient communities where everyone thrives.
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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.