Every five years our US Congress reauthorizes the Farm Bill, a huge piece of legislation that goes through the Agri- culture Committees of the Senate and House of Representatives. It’s policies and funding impacts not only the agri- culture and food sectors but also can play a huge role in ending food insecurity and hunger in the U.S. . . saving the lives of millions abroad.

Nearly three-fourths of the bill’s funding goes to nutrition programs, particularly SNAP, while other layers of the bill address conservation, reducing food waste, crop insurance, rural development, and research. In Georgia in 2021, 15% of Georgia residents received SNAP benefits, providing nutritious food on
their tables with better health outcomes without harming fragile budgets.

The bill also reauthorizes the Food for Peace - a global nutrition program - and suggests local flexibility in its implementation. It and other programs have and will provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance to millions of people abroad facing dan- gerous levels of hunger and malnutrition due to war, climate change, the COVID- 19 pandemic and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Elaine Davies will be guiding us through the process following worship on Sunday, August 20th downstairs in the sanctuary building. Join us in this important advocacy effort.