SNAP Works! Pass It On

Efforts to end hunger don’t stop with bags of groceries for our neighbors in need — at the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano we also work toward policies that will create a culture in which hunger can be eradicated.

California food banks experienced a jump in demand for services of 30-50 percent with the onset of the recession, and demand has continued to climb ever since. Recent reports from the Food Research & Action Center based on extensive Gallup polling show that 26.7 percent of California households with children, are struggling with food hardship as the recession lingers. The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP (formerly Food Stamps and currently known as CalFresh in California) is among the most effective government responses during times of economic hardship. This June is a critical time to raise awareness about hunger and the benefits of CalFresh.

State legislators will be finalizing a state budget that could cut safety net programs that keep many Californians from going hungry, while at the federal level Congress will be considering a Farm Bill and appropriations legislation that could cut SNAP/CalFresh benefits.

What can you do?

Call Your Senators Today!

Help us track our impact by using our toll-free hotline. This system allows you to connect with both of your senators without hanging up the phone.

Call our toll-free hotline at 877-698-8228.

Listen to the pre-recorded message and enter your zip code when prompted.

You will then be connected to your first Senator. Deliver this message:

As your constituent, I urge you to protect hunger-relief programs in the Farm Bill.  Specifically, I ask that you support Senator Gillibrand’s efforts to restore the cuts to SNAP and oppose any amendments that would weaken SNAP and other hunger-relief programs.

You will then be connected to your second Senator; deliver the same message to him or her.

Let us know when you’ve made your calls with a comment below or on Facebook.