Feeding America Condemns Cuts to Anti-hunger Programs

CHICAGO, June 16, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Statement attributable to Vicki Escarra, President and CEO of Feeding America:

"Feeding America condemns the House of Representatives vote today on the FY 12 Agriculture Appropriations bill, which dramatically slashes nutrition assistance for hundreds of thousands of Americans, especially low-income seniors, women, infants, and children.

"This bill puts a sad twist on the expression 'women and children first.'

"The cuts would push more people to local charities at the same time the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), a major source of food and resources for food banks, church pantries, and other charitable food providers is being slashed.

"More than 35 Representatives spoke passionately on the House floor about the impact of these cuts on our most vulnerable citizens. We applaud them for their efforts, and are deeply disappointed by the outcome of the vote.

"These cuts will barely make a dent in the Federal deficit, yet they will have a tremendous impact on the lives of low-income Americans who must rely on them to feed themselves and their families.

"We strongly urge the Senate to reject these harmful cuts and to pass an Agricultural Appropriations bill that fully funds essential nutrition assistance programs."

Vicki Escarra is available for interviews.

Contact:
Ross Fraser
312-641-6422
Chicago, June 16, 2011

SOURCE Feeding America