Poverty & Hunger

The United States is the richest country the world has ever known, yet 48 million or one in six people live in food insecure households.  With one of the highest poverty rates in the country, North Carolina's First Congressional District represents one of the most food insecure congressional districts. 

The economic challenges eastern North Carolinians face are due to no fault of their own.  A weakened U.S. economy has depressed incomes, strained households, and eliminated entire job markets, making it harder for families to put food on the table and provide for their loved ones.

Critical programs like Unemployment Insurance, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) provide a basic level of support for families weathering the worst economic recession since the Great Depression.  These programs are absolutely essential to keep children and families from going hungry while helping get people back to work.

As co-chair of the Out of Poverty Caucus, I will continue to protect and improve crucial safety net programs  like SNAP, TANF and WIC, which help families get back on their feet after unexpected challenges.