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.
There’s still time to register for tonight’s webinar! This webinar will explore what’s at stake as federal immigration policies continue to transform the nation—and will share how faith communities across traditions and geographies are rising to meet the moment.
Statement Regarding Recent US Supreme Court Ruling allowing ICE to stop immigrants without reasonable cause and by racially profiling them in Southern California.
En Español:
Si un ser querido es detenido: https://immigrantjustice.org/…/what-do-if-you-or-loved…/
Si se encuentra con ICE: https://immigrantjustice.org/…/know-your…/ice-encounter/
In English: https://blogs.elca.org/ammparo/the-latest-kyr
https://immigrantjustice.org/…/what-do-if-you-or-loved…/
https://internationalservices.gwu.edu/…/2025-04/KYR.pdf
Mail-in voting continues to be a popular option for Nevadans. In the 2024 election, nearly half of the state’s voters chose to cast their ballots by mail. Nevada’s elections are carefully designed to be safe and secure, ensuring that every vote counts.
Whether you prefer voting in person or by mail, participating in our democracy is simple and reliable. Learn more about how to request your mail-in ballot and make your voice heard.
Lutheran Engagement and Advocacy in Nevada 