Food is not a bargaining chip
This Saturday, November 1, SNAP benefits, the food assistance that nearly 42 million Americans and 757,000 Oregonians rely on, are set to stop flowing to states. Why? Because conservative leadership is using the government shutdown as cover to let kids, families, and elderly people go hungry.
Trump has the power to use the SNAP Contingency Reserve to keep families fed during this shutdown. He’s simply not yet done it.
If you or someone you know could benefit from food assistance, visit the Oregon Department of Human Services Food Resources page to find community meal programs, food pantries, and a range of other support available. For updates on how the government shutdown may impact your food benefits, visit this website.
I’m grateful for food pantries who are relentlessly working to keep our community fed. I’m also gratified by the local coffee shops and restaurants stepping up to offer free meals during this challenging time. But it should never have to come to this. Food is not a bargaining chip. People need to eat. It’s that simple.
In the richest country in the world, no one should go hungry. I will do everything I can to make sure SNAP benefits are fully funded immediately.
My team is here to help throughout the shutdown. Please call my office at (503) 321-2300 or visit my website if you have questions or would like to be connected to resources. Additionally, I encourage you to share your story with me so I can best fight for you in Congress.
ANNOUNCEMENT: UPCOMING IN-PERSON TOWN HALL
My next in-person town hall will be in St. Johns, next Saturday, November 8th, at the Roosevelt High School Gym (6941 N Central St, Portland, OR 97203) at 10am. I hope to see you there.
Be well,
Maxine Dexter, M.D.
Member of Congress