Statement Attributed to Kate Leone, Chief Government Relations Officer
“As the largest hunger-relief organization in the nation, Feeding America knows that flexibilities are critical to ensure that children facing hunger have access to nutritious food in a safe and effective manner during this pandemic. With continued school disruptions, our network of member food banks were eager to see the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) take action to extend critical child nutrition waivers until the end of the academic year. School meals are the only reliable source of nutrition each day for millions of children in this country, and this announcement will ensure that families are not turned away or forced to go to another location to access meals.
“The extension of child nutrition waivers until June 2021 gives meal providers the flexibilities needed to adjust while following critical safety requirements. We are relieved that schools and communities will be able to continue their meal operations during this pandemic and – most importantly – that children facing hunger will continue to receive the critical meals they need to help them learn and thrive.”
Contact
Please contact one of our media representatives or call 800-771-2303
About Feeding America
Feeding America is committed to an America where no one is hungry. We support tens of millions of people who experience food insecurity to get the food and resources they say they need to thrive as part of a nationwide network of food banks, statewide food bank associations, food pantries and meal programs. We also invest in innovative solutions to increase equitable access to nutritious food, advocate for legislation that improves food security and work to address factors that impact food security, such as health, cost of living and employment. We partner with people experiencing food insecurity, policymakers, organizations, and supporters, united with them in a movement to end hunger. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to learn more.