Please read about what we are doing to help, or go directly here. .
Leviticus 23:22 tells us, “And when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap all the way to the edges of your field, or gather the gleanings of your harvest; you shall leave them for the poor and the stranger. I the Eternal am your God.” As Jews, the Torah tells us to help feed others who are in need.
In the spirit of tikkun olam, every month we feature a cause that needs YOU.
According to the US Department of Agriculture, more than 47 million Americans – including 15.3 million children – live in food insecure households. These families lack the funds to have a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Children living in food insecure households rely on government programs to meet their nutritional needs. That’s why it is crucial for Congress to reauthorize the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act.
You can help right now. Please click here to go to the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, our partner.
It funds:
- The National Lunch and School Breakfast Programs, which supplies meals to children during the school day
- The Summer Food Service Program, which provides students access to food in the summer months
- The Afterschool Snack and Meal Program, which gives students snacks in nonprofit and public organizations
- The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, which supplies snacks during the school day
The Legislation also provides funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, which provides nutrition assistance and health care to low-income pregnant women, new mothers and young children.
Children in food insecure households are not only hungry, but also are at increased risk of developmental and health problems, long-term health complications, and poor educational outcomes. By passing this legislation, Congress will ensure that children receive healthy meals at home and at school. Click here to urge your Senators and Representatives to support the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are also at risk. These benefits are used like cash at authorized retail stores. SNAP enables millions of adults and children living below the poverty line, many of whom are working poor families, to purchase food. Not only does this program help eliminate hunger, but it also helps to lift families out of poverty, improve health, and support the local economy. Click here to add your name to a petition urging Congress to oppose budget cuts and other harmful changes to SNAP.
