Republicans in the House and Senate are proposing to slash more than $230 billion from SNAP and school nutrition programs in order to fund more tax handouts for the wealthy and billion-dollar corporations. But it’s far from a done deal.
SNAP is not only our most effective anti-hunger program, it plays a crucial role in reducing poverty and improving health and economic outcomes. It’s also linked to better education outcomes and self-sufficiency, and plays an important role in supporting rural communities.
SNAP is one of the most cost-effective government programs in existence. Every dollar spent on SNAP generates $1.80 in local communities. Cuts to SNAP and school nutrition programs will have devastating consequences for generations to come.
Individual states currently pay a portion of the cost of administering SNAP, while the federal government pays the actual benefits. Implementing a $230 billion cut could force states to take on a portion of the cost of nutrition benefits for the first time, a radical change in the program that could lead to drastic cuts, increasing wait times for approval for benefits, or put a huge squeeze on states leading to slashed investments in other programs.
Cutting SNAP (and Medicaid, another right-wing target) also makes it harder for eligible families to obtain free or reduced-price school meals, summer food assistance for school-aged children (Summer EBT), and WIC benefits. School meal programs and Summer EBT automatically enroll eligible children using SNAP and Medicaid, while WIC agencies use automated systems to check for SNAP or Medicaid eligibility. In addition, the House Budget Committee has put forth numerous specific budget-cutting proposals, including a $12 billion cut to free school breakfast and lunch programs, affecting 24,000 schools nationwide.
Cutting funding for nutrition programs in order to pay for some of Trump’s $4.5 trillion tax handout―mostly to the wealthy and corporations―is an abomination.
HELP OUR CAUSE & JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION
On Thursday, July 24th, at 5:30 p.m., the Coalition on Human Needs is hosting its annual fundraiser and reception. This year, CHN is honoring Legal Justice Champions who are fighting for basic needs & rights for workers, families and all of us in the courts.
JOIN US IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
We invite you to join us in making a difference and supporting CHN’s vital work by becoming a sponsor or donor. Your contribution will guarantee the continued success to advance our shared mission to create a more just and equitable society for all. Also, we want to be able to celebrate the notable efforts of social justice work when many people are unsure of what to do and who to turn to.
As a token of thanks, all sponsors receive tickets to our Hero Award celebration and recognition (additional tickets are available for purchase).
The alliance of our national organizations working together over the last four decades has contributed to major policy improvements and promoted more inclusivity to groups routinely excluded. We appreciate your support for the coalition’s concerted efforts and hope you continue to be part of the vital work to maintain community support systems during confusing restructuring.
For any questions, reach out to heroes@chn.org.
Thank you!