ARLINGTON, Va. — FMI – The Food Industry Association is calling on Congress to end the federal government shutdown to ensure continued funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
FMI Chief Public Policy Officer Jennifer Hatcher offered the following statement:
“As an industry that serves families in every community in America, we know firsthand how essential federal hunger and nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC are to customers experiencing difficult times and to the overall stability of our food system. When one leg of the stool that the government committed to provide is removed, it doesn’t just affect customers’ ability to feed their families; it also impacts store scheduling of employees, supplier orders and staffing, and the tax base of local economies across the country.
“We appreciate the efforts many states have made to try to provide short-term funding solutions in this time of need, and we’re proud of the way retailers and suppliers continue to support their communities during this period of uncertainty through donation programs and working with neighborhood groups. However, long-term stability for SNAP and WIC and vulnerable families requires the restoration of the federal commitment to these programs.
“We once again urge Congress to act immediately to restore government funding, provide clarity and food for families in need, and ensure that these vital programs remain dependable for those who have to rely on them to get them through a difficult time.”
