The welfare of millions of American children and their parents hangs in the balance as Congress considers cutting aid for those in need. According to a new report released by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, nearly 8 million children and 4.5 million parents could be denied food aid if lawmakers do not intervene and increase funding for programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The report found that without congressional action, federal SNAP benefits will drop significantly starting in 2021, with most households receiving an average of only $16 a month. This will mean that millions of people relying on the program will be unable to afford basic necessities like food, leaving them feeling even more vulnerable during uncertain times.
If lawmakers choose to ignore the severe cuts that this program will face, individuals, particularly those from disadvantaged populations, could be gravely impacted. Currently, SNAP helps to ensure that families and young kids have nutritious, affordable meals. Without adequate funding, their access to these basic essentials will decline significantly.
Some advocates of the program are working to make lawmakers aware of the drastic consequences that their decisions can have for hungry families and the snap can provide them the necessary assistance. They urge the federal government to boost the program’s funding in order to prevent the harmful cuts from taking place.
The report also details how the provisions of the SNAP law require the automatic cuts to SNAP benefits if there isn’t an agreement on additional funding.
As the consequences of the potential cuts would not only affect kids and parents that rely on SNAP, but also create a significant added burden for those in poverty, it’s essential that Congress take action to avert a disaster. While we must wait and see what the final decisions may be, it’s clear that the overall well-being of millions of people is riding on the outcome.