One Country Project Applauds Update to Thrifty Food Plan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  

August 17, 2021 

CONTACT: [email protected] 

 

One Country Project Applauds Update to Thrifty Food Plan

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today, One Country Project (OCP) co-founder Senator Heidi Heitkamp commended the Biden administration for taking significant action to increase the levels of funding for food stamp assistance available to families in need by more than 25 percent above pre-pandemic levels.

“Rural America is disproportionately impacted by food insecurity, as many rural residents face barriers to healthy food due to lack of adequate income, access to grocery stores, or affordable transportation,” said One Country Project co-founder Senator Heidi Heitkamp. “Over 2 million rural Americans face hunger, and federal assistance programs like the Thrifty Food Plan and SNAP benefits are critical to ensuring families have access to healthy, nutritious foods. We are glad to see the Biden administration take significant and historic steps to increase funding for these important programs so low-income Americans can continue to put healthy food on the table.

“This increase in monthly benefits will put more money directly into the hands of Americans across the country. It will allow for rural families to make food decisions that work best for their family and schedule and provides the opportunity to choose healthy foods that fit modern diets. As small-town communities face unique challenges brought to light by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic shutdowns, this increase in nutrition assistance will provide the stability that families need to thrive.

“We’re encouraged by President Biden’s commitment to ensuring the rural communities that have previously been left behind receive the funding they deserve and look forward to future legislation and policies that will bring renewed opportunity to rural America.”

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About One Country Project  

The One Country Project, led by former Senators Heidi Heitkamp and Joe Donnelly, is working to promote greater opportunities for rural communities and ensure leaders earn their support. One Country is reengaging with rural Americans, serving as a clearinghouse of research and information for rural Americans, and working to ensure leaders regain trust by fighting for these communities. To learn more, visit the website, OneCountryProject.org.