Statement attributed to Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, Feeding America chief executive officer
People facing hunger need Congress to provide solutions that support families and invest in healthy, prosperous communities. However, the budget reconciliation bill currently under consideration in the House would do the opposite by taking away access to food and health care from millions of children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.
This legislation proposes significant reductions to essential programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid, at a time when the cost of food and health care remains prohibitively high for tens of millions of people in the United States.
According to preliminary estimates, the proposed reductions to SNAP could eliminate the equivalent of nearly 6 to 9 billion meals annually. For context, the entire Feeding America network, which includes more than 200 food banks and 60,000 faith-based and charitable partners, distributed 6 billion meals last year. Furthermore, proposed cuts to Medicaid could result in the loss of health care coverage for at least 8 million individuals, leaving an additional 800,000 people without sufficient resources to access the nutritious food they need to thrive.
We respectfully urge members of Congress to oppose harmful cuts to these vital programs and, instead, advocate for solutions that support individuals and families in their states and districts.
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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.