14 GOP-led states turn down federal money to feed low-income kids in the summer. Here’s why
LA TimesJim Pillen, joined by state senators at the Capitol, announces the state will participate in a federal program to feed low-income children, reversing his previous opposition. But Food Research and Action Center, an advocacy group targeting hunger, has found that the main federally funded summer nutrition program doesn’t reach most qualified children. of Public Instruction Megan Degenfelder said she turned down the Summer EBT card funds because she wanted to prioritize the current summer meals programs, which require minimal state funding. And even though the federal government last year started letting families take home a week’s worth of meals for children, Wyoming sites offered only in-person meals. Jim Pillen sparked a firestorm of criticism when he justified rejecting the money by explaining, “I don’t believe in welfare.” But he reversed course on Monday and said the state would join the program after a Democratic lawmaker introduced a bill to require participation.
History of this topic
Iowa proposes summer grocery boxes as alternative to direct cash payments for low-income families
Associated PressFamilies face food insecurity in Republican-led states that turned down federal aid this summer
Associated PressIowa puts $1 million toward summer meal sites, still faces criticism for rejecting federal funds
Associated Press14 GOP-led states have turned down federal money to feed low-income kids in the summer. Here’s why
Associated PressNebraska governor reverses course and says state will take federal funding to feed children
Associated PressUSDA estimates 21 million kids will get summer food benefits through new program in 2024
Associated Press
Column: In their war on children’s health, red states reject federal meal program for low-income families
LA TimesNebraska governor stands firm on rejection of federal money to feed food-insecure children
Associated Press
Iowa won’t participate in U.S. food assistance program for kids this summer
LA TimesIowa won’t participate in US food assistance program for kids this summer
Associated PressMinnesota program to provide free school meals for all kids is costing the state more than expected
Associated Press
Proposal for student cards to cover free meals fails in California Legislature
LA Times
Congress approves free student meal extension through summer
Associated Press
Millions of children will miss healthy school meals when pandemic relief expires
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