Congressman McGovern takes the Food Stamp Challenge

Statement

Congressman McGovern takes the Food Stamp Challenge

Hunger is a real and growing problem in America. According to USDA, one in nine U.S. households - nearly 36 million Americans - do not always have enough food to feed themselves or their families. In many cases, low-income Americans are forced to make choices that most Americans find difficult to even imagine. Without help, many who go without food would be forced to choose between paying their electricity bill, addressing health care needs, or buying food. The Food Stamp Program was designed to help low-income families buy food so they don't have to make these difficult choices. It truly is the safety net for America's hungry. Food stamp benefits assist 26 million low-income people in this country to purchase and prepare healthy, sufficient meals for their families.

As a Member of Congress, I don't have to rely on Food Stamps to feed my family. But that means it is difficult for me to imagine what it is like to experience true hunger or to rely on the Food Stamp Program. That is why I have decided to take the "Food Stamp Challenge." From May 15th to May 21st, I will live on a food stamp budget and have urged my colleagues in the Congress to do the same. I believe we have a moral responsibility to end hunger in America, and the goal is to raise awareness of the difficulties facing food stamp recipients and to demonstrate support for the Food Stamp Program's vital role in providing nutrition assistance to low-income families.

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