“Millions of American children go hungry when school is out for the summer. We must reject cuts to food programs and spend more money to feed these kids.”

“Mr. Speaker, when schools are closed for the summer, far too many kids in America go hungry because they don’t have access to nutritious breakfasts or lunches. That is where the incredible Summer Eats program comes in. Funded by USDA and in partnership with States, local schools, and community organizations, Summer Eats provides free, nutritious summer meals to kids across the country. Last week, I joined Project Bread on a visit to Summer Eats programs in Leominster and Turners Falls, two communities in my district. I was able to talk with young children and teens who told me they loved the meals and enjoyed the ability to spend time with their friends while school was out of session. I thank the Spanish American Center and the Gill-Montague School District for sponsoring these successful sites. Mr. Speaker, even with important programs like Summer Eats, 14 million kids in the United States of America, the richest country in the history of the world, are food insecure. We have to reject Republican cuts to nutrition programs and invest more in programs like Summer Eats, which help to improve health and end hunger now.”