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
Rooted in the voices of neighbors facing hunger, Feeding America® unites the country to ensure 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 to drive 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, acting united with 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.