Call Senators Casey and Toomey THIS MORNING – A vote on a far-reaching stimulus plan is expected today (as early as 1 p.m.) Congress must immediately pass a comprehensive stimulus package that will stabilize the economy and provide crucial direct aid to individuals and families. Millions of Americans not only need assistance to endure this current public health and economic crisis, but also so they can get back on their feet once a recovery begins. Call Senator Toomey (202-224-4254) and Senator Casey (202-224-6324) Tell them that any COVID-19 economic recovery package must strengthen SNAP’s ability to provide direct aid while also powering economic stimulus by:
1. Boosting SNAP maximum benefits by 15 percent;
2. Increasing the minimum SNAP benefit from $16 to $30; and
3. Suspending all SNAP administrative rules that would terminate or weaken benefits. While the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) was signed into law last week, today’s far-reaching stimulus bill is poised to be the most significant legislative response to fallout from the pandemic so far. We must ensure it will help those who need help the most! Background: Protecting the public’s health is critically important for the nation. Before the current crisis, far too many Americans were already struggling with food insecurity. Now, millions more face job loss, reduced income, and incredible stress about the uncertainties to come. Increasing access to SNAP and improving SNAP benefit levels would not only provide immediate economic stimulus but will further SNAP’s role in improving the public’s health. Each dollar of SNAP brings about $1.78 in economic stimulus because it is spent right away. SNAP households spend nearly 97 percent of their benefits within the first month. Furthermore, research on the American Recovery Reinvestment Act (ARRA) demonstrates favorable impacts on food security, health, dietary intake, and food spending with an increase in benefits. For the most up-to-date information on a national response to hunger during this crisis, please follow FRAC's COVID-19 Updates at the link below. With Gratitude,  Kathy Fisher Policy Director The Coalition Against Hunger | 
