“Food or rent. Food or medicine. Food or transportation. Food for me or food for my children.” Earlier this week, we brought the voices of the 42 million people being denied food benefits to federal court.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP,” formerly known as food stamps) is the most important and effective program we have to fight hunger in the United States. It gives 42 million people in over 22 million households the ability to put food on their tables, keep their children in school, focus on their jobs, and improve the overall health of their families. It also is an economic lifeline for large and small grocery stores in every community.
The Food and Nutrition Act, the statute governing SNAP, requires the government to issue benefits to approved households every month, regardless of what is going on with the federal budget. And for the last sixty years, those benefits have never been interrupted, even during the uncertainty of government shutdowns.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
