The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“FOOD PANTRIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the House of Representatives section on pages H10031 on Dec. 11, 2019.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
FOOD PANTRIES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
(Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, food banks and food pantries play a valuable role in our communities all year long, but around the holiday season their impact on families in need is magnified.
In 2018, more than 37 million Americans were considered food insecure, including 11 million children. The Department of Agriculture defines food insecurity as ``a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life.''
Access to quality food and nutrition is necessary for healthy families, and as the former chairman of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Nutrition, this is an issue that I feel very passionately about.
We can all help our neighbors in need by contributing to our local food banks and food pantries by making a donation or volunteering our time. Just a small contribution or a few hours out of our day can make a big difference in our communities.
During this holiday season, it is especially important that we support families who have fallen on hard times.
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