Congressman David Scott (GA-13) recently joined 160 members of Congress in a letter urging congressional leadership to address rising food insecurity and unprecedented demand at food banks by strengthening the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
“Families across Georgia are overwhelmed by record job losses, health strains and rising grocery costs during this pandemic,” stated Congressman Scott. “They need our help now. We cannot pause or delay to address the immediate need for food assistance. The SNAP program is a proven and effective method that provides families with the nutritional support they need to put food on their tables.”
Addressed to Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the letter calls for an increase of the maximum SNAP benefit by 15 percent, an increase of the minimum monthly benefit to $30 throughout the duration of this crisis, and suspension of administrative rules that would weaken program eligibility.
USDA reports indicate the COVID-19 pandemic has caused food insecurity to double among all households and triple among households with children. Demand for food assistance is up 30% to 40% in the 29 counties the Atlanta Community Food Bank serves in and around metro Atlanta. Food banks across the country are helping fight the hunger crisis caused by the pandemic but do not have the extensive reach of SNAP. For every 1 meal provided by the national network of food banks, SNAP provides 9 meals according to Feeding America. Congress must take up legislation to strengthen SNAP and help vulnerable families during this pandemic.
