By Jamie Martin
The 2023 Household Food Security Report from the USDA reveals that a significant portion of U.S. households continues to face food insecurity.
In his response, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack criticized recent Congressional actions for undermining programs designed to aid those in need, particularly during economic downturns.
According to the report, 86.5 percent of households were food secure in 2023, leaving 13.5 percent, or 18 million households, struggling with food-related issues.
Vilsack emphasized the negative impacts of limiting access to critical aids like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Child Tax Credit, which have proven effective in reducing poverty and food insecurity.
Highlighting the importance of federal nutrition programs, Vilsack noted that consistent food insecurity rates among households with children underscore the effectiveness of the National School Lunch Program, WIC, and SNAP. These programs have been pivotal in providing necessary nutrition and should be fortified rather than restricted.
The USDA continues to advocate for the SUN Bucks program, introduced in 2024 to help feed children during the summer months.
Vilsack’s call to action stresses the importance of fully supporting SNAP and WIC to ensure that future generations receive the best possible start.
The Secretary's statement underscores the critical role of federal food assistance programs in preventing hunger, particularly in a nation as prosperous as the United States.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National