Hunger in America
As the wealthiest nation in the world, it is unconscionable that millions of Americans including children, veterans, and the elderly, go hungry every day. That is why I have long supported vital nutrition programs and fought to protect them from Republican spending cuts.
The Special Supplemental Assistance Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) ensures that low-income pregnant women, postpartum women, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk are able to supplement their diets with nutritious food needed for the healthy development of infants and children. Children have always been the largest recipients of this important support that helps promote healthy eating habits and protect vulnerable families.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly called Food Stamps, is the last line of defense for more than 40 million Americans who face chronic hunger. More than 80 percent of SNAP households include a child, an elderly person, or someone with a disability. Unfortunately the Trump administration wants to slash the program and reduce benefits to a point below what is required to support a bare bones diet. I stand firm in protecting the most vulnerable Americans from cuts that would worsen the hunger crisis they already face.
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