U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski (R-Ind.), co-chair of the House Hunger Caucus, today introduced the Securing Nutrition for American Communities and Kids (SNACK) Act to offer flexibility for school nutrition programs and make it easier for them to overcome persistent food supply chain disruptions and other current challenges.
“Throughout the pandemic, our local schools overcame extraordinary obstacles to ensure eligible Hoosier kids maintained access to safe and healthy meals. Now, persistent supply chain bottlenecks and food shortages continue to plague school nutrition programs in Indiana and across the country – with no end in sight,” said Congresswoman Walorski. “In this uncertain environment, schools are struggling to facilitate meal programs and plan for future disruptions. The SNACK Act provides relief by offering flexibility to help school nutrition programs overcome supply chain challenges and restore focus to their true mission – feeding kids and equipping them to thrive.”
BACKGROUND
The SNACK Act would extend pandemic-era flexibilities for school nutrition programs to account for continuing supply chain shortages. It would amend the Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 to allow schools to continue non-congregate summer food service, which enables programs to offer meals to individual students either in-person or by pickup rather than in a group setting, this summer. Additionally, the SNACK Act would extend supply chain waivers through the upcoming school year, until June 30, 2024.
As co-chair of the House Hunger Caucus, Congresswoman Walorski is leading efforts to end food insecurity and support healthier, more resilient communities.
Read the full text of Congresswoman Walorski’s legislation, the SNACK Act, here.
