Urgent Letter: How Budget Cuts Are Threatening Our Health and Nutrition

As a registered dietitian and the President of the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, I’m worried about recent federal budget cuts to vital health and nutrition programs. These cuts target initiatives like SNAP, WIC, school meals, and SNAP-Ed, which have long been proven effective in supporting families.

These programs are not just optional; they are crucial lifelines. They help families access healthy food, reducing risks of chronic diseases and lowering health care expenses. Cutting these programs means more hunger and preventable illnesses, especially in underserved areas like Northern California.

I’ve personally seen how WIC and SNAP empower individuals to recover and thrive. They aren’t just numbers on a budget; they represent real people and communities. According to a study by the USDA, every dollar spent on SNAP generates about $1.50 in economic activity. This shows that investing in nutrition programs is also an economic win.

This is not just a political issue; it’s a human one. Everyone deserves to have the nutrition they need to lead healthy lives. Although the bill is likely to pass, our efforts to advocate for essential programs must continue.

We must ensure that all Californians have access to adequate nutrition and support. Let’s keep the conversation going and fight for a healthier future for everyone.



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