Farm Bill increases hunger

In June the House passed a Farm Bill that increases hunger and poverty. By cutting $20 billion and strictly limiting eligibility for SNAP (food stamps), it takes food away from working-poor families, children, disabled people, veterans, seniors and seasonal workers.

The Spokane Food Policy Council brings community stakeholders together to foster a prosperous, healthy and accessible food system for all. We support sensible reforms that were already made to SNAP, including Washington state’s award-winning Basic Food (SNAP) Employment and Training program.

Yet Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers voted for a bill that would have a disproportionate impact on low-income families in our area. According to the Food Research and Action Center, SNAP participation is above state and national averages in both the 5th District and rural Eastern Washington.

We believe our farmers, producers, low-income families, communities and economy are stronger when everyone has the nutrition they need be healthy and productive – and when Washington’s farmers have support to take care of our land and grow food for all of us. The Senate’s bipartisan Farm Bill shows Congress can do both.

We urge Congress to follow the Senate’s lead. Protect SNAP from cuts in the final Farm Bill.

Kitty Klitzke

Food Policy Council Chair, Futurewise Spokane Program Director

Spokane