Dear John, Do you remember what it’s like to be a kid at the start of a new school year? First-day jitters, the rush of excitement as you pass friends in the hallways and the weight of a backpack full of fresh pencils and crayons on your shoulders. But this year, it is estimated that 13 million children will face a daunting obstacle to learning: hunger. There are about 2 million more hungry kids in the U.S. than there were before the pandemic. Studies show that these children are likely to struggle with low energy, distraction and disinterest. John , we need to ensure that kids across the nation have access to the nutritious foods they need to succeed in the classroom – and beyond. Urge Congress to support the Build Back Better bill, which includes an ambitious investment in child nutrition to help keep kids well-fed year-round. The Build Back Better bill includes legislation designed to combat the growing child hunger crisis and help families recover from the devastation of the pandemic. If passed, the bill would improve access to free school meals for all children in high-poverty communities and make it easier for students and families in need to apply for benefits. These changes would help eliminate financial burdens for low-income families and vastly increase the number of children who benefit from federal nutrition programs. The plan would also make the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer program (Summer – EBT) permanent and nationwide to help get more food to kids when school is out of session – because summer is no time for kids to go hungry. When children grow up healthier and stronger, our economy and our nation follow suit. Send a message to Congress: support the Build Back Better bill, because children should leave the classroom with full minds – not empty bellies. Thank you for being a voice for kids, | 
