Statement attributed to Rebeckah Freeman Adcock, chief government relations officer at Feeding America
As more families turn to food banks for support, Feeding America is encouraged that the Senate continues to work toward improving nutrition programs that help people put food on the table. Strengthening both the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) is needed to ensure that these programs work together to help families experiencing food insecurity.
The updated SNAP proposal offered by Chairman Boozman is progress toward giving states additional time before new cost-sharing requirements take effect, responding to concerns raised by states and counties about maintaining stable access to SNAP for eligible families. While the proposed delay does not address all issues identified by states and counties as they work to implement changes to the program, the progress shows the Committee’s willingness to address serious concerns about impacts to food banks and the neighbors we serve each day.
Feeding America welcomes the proposed added investment in TEFAP that would help more food grown by America’s farmers reach neighbors facing hunger while strengthening support for food banks and communities. Food banks have experienced a 30% decline in TEFAP food over recent years, with an additional 25% decline projected for fiscal year 2026, even as more neighbors continue turning to food banks for help. The result is a widening gap between the amount of food available and the growing need in communities across the country. This investment in TEFAP represents much-needed relief for the food bank network.
We also appreciate the bipartisan provisions that would protect SNAP benefits against theft and strengthen local food systems by increasing access to locally grown, nutritious food through food banks and schools, supporting both families and local agriculture.
More work is needed to build a bill that serves the entire food and farm system. We urge senators to continue working toward a bipartisan Farm Bill that strengthens nutrition and agricultural programs, supports farmers, and helps ensure every family has reliable access to the 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 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.