Something’s got to give
America is so damn beautiful. This is just a fact. America comprises moonlight and water, starlight and the outdoor smells of forests, and magnificent scenery that defines this beautiful place we call the United States. And we, of course, want EVERYONE to see the beauty that is America. But how can some people see it if they’re starving?
Hunger is a real thing in America. I wish it were not. I wish EVERYBODY had enough to eat, that NOBODY ever had to worry about where their next meal would come from. Is there anything more painful than seeing hunger in children? Not for Iowa and Nebraska, apparently.
I say this because these states have made a decision. They will not participate in the United States food assistance program for kids this summer.
Iowa’s program gives $40 per month to each low-income child. This money is very helpful for food costs, especially since school is closed during the summer and the children need to know where their next meal is coming from.
The Iowa governor made a short statement about it in which she rambled on about childhood obesity. “An EBT card does nothing to promote nutrition at a time when childhood obesity has become an epidemic.”
Nebraska wasn’t far behind. They, too, have announced their lack of participation in this program. Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen actually said in his statement: “I don’t believe in welfare.”
Stunning. He then added that Nebraska could fix the problem themselves. No, they can’t. The bottom line is this decision by these states is highly harmful, and it is not surprising that it comes from two red states.
Studies have shown that red states lag in many ways. The states with the most poverty are usually red states. Something needs to give. These Governors should be ashamed of themselves.
