Following Biden’s First Joint Address to Congress, MAZON Welcomes Continued Investment in Food Access, Nutrition
As President Biden concluded his first 100 days in office with a joint address to Congress in which he referenced the miles long lines of cars at food banks during the pandemic, leading anti-hunger experts praised the administration’s continued prioritization of food access and nutrition. Abby J. Leibman, MAZON’s President and CEO, noted the American Families Plan is a welcome return to a government that cares for its citizens:
“Millions of Americans facing food insecurity can now anticipate a more hopeful future because, starting on day one, President Biden prioritized ensuring people in this country have access to the food and nutrition they need. It was powerful to hear him acknowledge what we all know to be true: that these people are struggling ‘for no fault of their own.’
“President Biden’s latest proposal, The American Families Plan, reflects both American and Jewish values of tzedek (pursuing justice) and b’tselem Elohim (respecting the inherent dignity of every person). It provides direct support for Americans who often face many interconnected challenges related to employment, childcare, education, and healthcare — many of which push people to need critical safety net programs like SNAP. We are particularly pleased that the plan would expand summer EBT to all eligible children and improve Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) to expand healthy school meals for more children in this country. We stand ready to work with Congress to ensure that these policies are enacted as quickly as possible.”