The following statement on Congress’ final passage of the American Rescue Plan is attributable to Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas:
“Today is a big win for all Texans. Congress recognized the efficacy of putting money back in people's pockets to prevent hunger, pay the bills and ultimately help every American family prosper as we recover from the most challenging period in recent national memory.
“This bill makes important investments in nutrition, extending a boost to SNAP benefits and the P-EBT program for schoolchildren, as well as strengthening the WIC program for mothers of small children. The number of Texans struggling to put enough food on the table spiked last spring due to COVID-19, remained high over the summer, and rose even higher in late 2020. We are very pleased that Congress agreed to keep these critical nutrition investments in place until more Texans can secure their ability to keep their pantries full.
“However, the biggest win for families experiencing hunger is the expansion of the child tax credit. Research has consistently shown that putting cash in people's hands is the best and most flexible way to help them meet their basic needs. Participants in similar, smaller programs overwhelmingly spend their tax credit on meeting basic needs like food, paying down debt and strengthening their family's ability to get ahead.
“Experts believe that if made permanent, this tax credit expansion could cut child poverty in half. That is exactly what Congress must do. Supporting the growth and development of every child will not just secure their future, but the future of our nation.”