Statement attributed to Vince Hall, Feeding America chief government relations officer
The budget reconciliation legislation before the House of Representatives for a vote as soon as this week would weaken SNAP and Medicaid at a time when the cost of food and health care is already out of reach for many.
Our neighbors facing hunger want the same things we all want for ourselves, including the opportunity to thrive through access to fresh, healthy food. But if this legislation is enacted, it could take 9.5 billion meals each year from the plates of people experiencing food insecurity, including children, veterans, seniors and people with disabilities. Hunger transcends party lines, and the adverse impact of this legislation will be felt in every community across the political spectrum.
While there are opportunities for improvement, SNAP remains the most successful anti-hunger program —reaching people in every state with the dignity and consistency they deserve. This legislation proposes shifting a portion of the cost of SNAP benefits to the states, a move that could result in reduced benefits or limited eligibility, the opposite of what our neighbors say they need to thrive. Feeding America network food banks are vital resources as demand rises, but strong federal nutrition programs are critical to ensuring our neighbors have the support they need.
With food insecurity reaching its highest level in more than a decade, we are facing a hunger crisis. Our country can choose to solve this problem if we join together to support common-sense policies and solutions. We urge Congress to reject this legislation, which erodes federal programs like SNAP and Medicaid that have helped ensure everyone can have the chance to live a healthy, thriving life.
It is as important as ever for us to stand shoulder to shoulder with people facing hunger to support solutions that will build resilient communities and ensure everyone has the healthy, nutritious food they need 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.