Hi John - When the pandemic started last spring, the issue of childhood hunger quickly became much more visible. And while community groups and faith communities sprang into action to fill the gap, it wasn’t enough. The need was too great. Sadly, it is just getting worse. The good news is we can do something right now to help hungry kids. The stimulus package that Congress is discussing includes funding for programs that help children have enough to eat. One critical thing you can do today is to ask your members of Congress to prioritize funding for programs that help children have the food they need. Please urge Congress to combat child hunger today! Child hunger is impacting children from coast to coast. But because of racial disparities, nearly 4 in 10 Black and Hispanic families are having a hard time making sure their kids get enough to eat.[1] Kids in rural America are struggling even more now, too. The distance to the nearest grocery story is often very far. And with soaring job losses in rural areas basic expenses – like gas to drive to the grocery story – can be out of reach for many parents. When children don’t have enough nutritious food to eat, their physical and mental growth suffers. And they often struggle in school making it hard for them to achieve their dreams. It’s critical that Congress includes enough funding for anti-hunger programs like the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as food stamps). These programs are essential tools to reach the large number of children who are experiencing hunger. But Congress must hear a groundswell of support to ensure they include enough funding in the relief bill. You can help! Will you join me in sending a message to Congress today? Thank you for being a voice for kids, |