Save the Children Statement on New Farm Bill Reauthorization Proposals

WASHINGTON (May 2, 2024)—Rep. Glenn Thompson and Sen. Debbie Stabenow, who chair their respective chambers’ agricultural committees, have unveiled key aspects of their proposals to renew the farm bill. In response, Christy Gleason, Vice President for Policy, Advocacy and Campaign at Save the Children, said:

"We’re currently facing the worst hunger crisis in a century. Nearly 13 million children in the US – about twice the population of Arizona – are facing hunger, and nearly 8 million children are at risk of death from severe malnutrition globally. The farm bill helps children access nutritious food, here at home and around the world. That is why it is critical that this farm bill reauthorization prioritizes kids everywhere.  

"We endorse the Senate bill because it focuses on fighting hunger today and into the future. The bill strengthens and protects the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) children across the US rely on to access the food they need to grow and be healthy. It protects all the tools in the international food aid toolbox while investing in breaking the cycle of hunger and creates historic investments in rural America, improving access to childcare and providing opportunities for children growing up in rural America to thrive.

"We urge bipartisan support for farm bill renewal that maximizes access to nutritious food while investing in long-term solutions to hunger."

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Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Since our founding more than 100 years ago, we've been advocating for the rights of children worldwide. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming the future we share. Our results, financial statements and charity ratings reaffirm that Save the Children is a charity you can trust. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.