DeLauro On USDA Report On Access To Adequate Food

Statement

Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-3) released the following statement today on the USDA's report on Household Food Security in the United States, 2008, which showed 49 million Americans lack dependable access to adequate food. This is the highest number since the government began keeping records, and underscores the need for further action from Congress. Congresswoman DeLauro said:

"The new hunger figures released today by the USDA are deeply disturbing, especially given that food and fuel costs were rising so dramatically during 2008. It is even more disturbing to think that these numbers are probably worse today due to the economy. While Congress made great progress in the farm bill and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in helping Americans provide food for their families, this new report clearly demonstrates that more work is needed, especially in reducing childhood hunger. It is unacceptable that 21 percent of American households with children are going hungry. Next year, Congress should take full advantage of the opportunity to reduce childhood hunger through the Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act because no family should have to go without such a basic need."

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