With the second session of the Legislature in full swing, I am happy to see that LD 174, An Act to Implement the Recommendations of the Ending Hunger by 2030 Advisory Group, is moving forward out of committee to be voted on soon. 

The offers a comprehensive recommendations that look to solve food insecurity and hunger by leveraging federal programs and addressing root problems of hunger by working to lift Mainers out of poverty. 

Hunger affects Mainers in all 16 counties, at all ages of life.  Forty percent of seniors face hunger or are at risk of going hungry.  Two thirds of single parent households face food insecurity. Children are going to school hungry which makes it harder to learn.  One in five Mainers faces hunger.  These are our neighbors, friends, and co-workers.

The report stated that there is a gap of ten million meals that are not covered after federal programs and charitable food banks are used.  That’s ten million bellies that are going hungry at some point in the year.  Maine is currently in a solid place economically.  It is time to look at ways to help better the quality of life for all.  

Finding ways to streamline and utilize federal programs, increasing stability in housing, training for higher wage jobs, and addressing health disparities that are connected to food insecurity benefits everyone in our communities and our state. 

I hope people contact their representatives in support of this bill and the people of Maine.