“All of us here in Congress have the luxury of knowing that we can provide our families with healthy food; but there are so many people in our country that will go this holiday without such a blessing, and, sadly, most of those in dire need are children”, said Rep. Davis.
On December 4, 2013 Rep. Davis of California asked for and was granted permission to address the United States House of Representatives for one minute regarding hunger in America. What she said was absolutely shocking!
“Mr. Speaker, this holiday season, my constituents have inspired me by writing in about the importance of food aid and the SNAP program.”
“All of us here in Congress have the luxury of knowing that we can provide our families with healthy food; but there are so many people in our country that will go this holiday without such a blessing, and, sadly, most of those in dire need are children. In fact, 70 percent of all households that depend on SNAP are families with children”, she said.
“In my district, a 16-year-old girl named Maya was hospitalized last year for issues related to malnutrition. She had struggled in school and showed signs of depression. Maya’s hospitalization triggered her father to apply for SNAP benefits. Having a more reliable source of food gave Maya the energy to improve her grades and help her family. She helped her family out by getting a part-time job. As we debate the farm bill, let’s remember that there are children like Maya. Let’s work together to protect SNAP”, said Rep. Davis (source: Congressional Record http://thomas.loc.gov).
See video: Hungry and poor: children in America http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrV8IJ9JSco
See video: Facing hunger in America http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqKLoapOWpI
See video: children speak out on hunger http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2H6eC7Ghxw
See video: Hunger is an everyday problem facing some Americans http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_-hhS5pUZQ
See video: 60 minute special: Children in Poverty http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vK4PvcVAbes