South Florida Chefs Rally to Protect America’s Largest Food Assistance Program – Join the Fight!

Eight chefs from South Florida have joined over 150 culinary colleagues across the country to urge Congress to protect children from hunger. They are speaking out against proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps low-income families buy food.

“Cuts to SNAP will lead to more hunger and hardship for families,” said Lorena Garcia, a prominent South Florida chef. “With millions struggling to afford food, Congress must oppose cuts that will reduce grocery benefits, making it harder for kids to access nutritious meals.”

House Republicans are pushing for $230 billion in cuts to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s budget over the next ten years. This includes significant reductions in SNAP funding, which currently assists nearly 42 million low-income Americans, including one in five children. A family of four earning around $42,000 or less typically qualifies for SNAP benefits.

In a recent letter to Congress, the chefs emphasized that SNAP is crucial in fighting hunger. It enables families to afford nutritious meals without compromising other essential needs.

“Kids receiving SNAP perform better in school and are healthier than those who don’t,” Garcia pointed out. “It’s a vital tool in our fight against hunger.”

Opponents of SNAP argue it costs the government too much, with expenses nearing $100 billion last year. However, experts warn that cutting these funds would only worsen food insecurity and harm local businesses. Katie Bergh, a senior policy analyst at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, stated, “Deep cuts would not only increase food insecurity but also diminish SNAP’s ability to create jobs nationwide.”

In Florida alone, nearly 3 million residents risk losing some or all of their benefits if these cuts go through. As Garcia aptly said, “We need to ensure no child goes hungry, as they are the future generation that will feed us all.”

Protecting SNAP is more than just about saving money; it’s about investing in the health and future of our children and communities.

For a deeper understanding, check out the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities report that outlines the program’s impact on food security and local economies.

Source link

Congress,featured,food assistance,free,snap,South Florida,U.S. Department of Agriculture