This is not a moment in time to cut additional food assistance programs. Urge annual budget support for critical federal hunger programs such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
Federal lawmakers are currently deciding funding levels for vital nutrition programs in the FY26 federal budget. While the Senate has advanced legislation that fully funds programs such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) – ensuring no eligible families are turned away – the House version cuts this critical program by $800 million and reduces by 10% the fruit and vegetable benefit.
Funding decisions come at a time of looming additional threats to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), with new barriers introduced by the budget reconciliation bill that could affect millions of food insecure Americans starting early next year. At the same time, hundreds of millions of dollars essential to food banks, such as The Emergency Food Assistance Program, the Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program and local farm-to-foodbank programs have been unilaterally cut by the administration without congressional approval. As food banks and hunger ministries brace for the impact of 2.4 million fewer individuals a month receiving SNAP, lawmakers should hear that this is not a moment in time to cut additional food assistance programs.
Our Lutheran social teachings remind us that, “[We] live in light of God’s promised future that ultimately there will be no hunger and injustice. This promise makes us restless with less than what God intends for the world” (ELCA social statement Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All). As many faith-based ministries, soup kitchens and food pantries serve as the backbone of hunger aid across the nation, including many ELCA World Hunger partners, it is critical that the Lutheran voice is heard nationally during these important negotiations – and to strongly support evidence-based programs that reduce hunger in our communities.
What are you seeing in your communities, ministries and families? Customize the suggested language to say what YOU want your lawmakers to hear. Your local stories and convictions help your message be heard. Thank you for your advocacy.
For more information on other nutrition programs in the annual FY26 federal budget, including funding for older Americans, tribal assistance and others, read more from Food Research and Action Center (FRAC), of which the ELCA is a supporter, here.
[Posted: 9/10/2025]
