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To the editor,  

President Joe Biden recently signed the bipartisan Keep Kids Fed Act into law to extend child nutrition waivers for school meal programs across the country.

The legislation equips schools and community organizations with more of the tools and financial resources they need to continue feeding children through the 2022-23 school year. U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott originally introduced the Keep Kids Fed Act and I’m grateful for his leadership.

Changes at the state level will help reduce child food insecurity in the Commonwealth as well. Thanks to funding in the state budget, any Virginia student who qualifies for reduced-price meals can now receive free meals.

You also can help reduce food insecurity in the Suffolk area this summer. No Kid Hungry runs a free texting service that helps families find meals in their neighborhoods. Parents and caregivers simply text the word “FOOD” to 304-304 to see all the nearby options.

Summer is one of the hungriest times of the year for many children because they can’t access the meals they usually receive in school. Please spread the word about the texting service.

Families may be eligible for additional benefits during the summer and can call 2-1-1 to find out more about programs such as SNAP, WIC (Women, Infants and Children) and other local food distribution options.

 

Sarah Steely 

No Kid Hungry Virginia

Richmond