• Nearly 4 million low-income Californians, including 85,000 San Franciscans, experience food insecurity, periods of time when they couldn't afford to put food on the table, or had to forgo other basic needs like medicine or transportation in order to feed themselves.  Adults who are food insecure have poorer health and are at increased risk of depression and poor mental health, as well as chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.  I support the following initiatives to help end hunger and food insecurity in California; 
  

• Simplify application procedures for and increase participation in federal nutrition programs like CalFresh (food stamps), WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for women, infants, and children), and school meals.
  

• Reduce the stigma surrounding applying for and receiving government funded nutrition programs.  
  

• Align eligibility for nutrition programs with other key social and medical services.
  

• Preserve and strengthen the safety net for low-income families and seniors.  When low-income people struggle to pay rent, medical costs, and to meet their basic needs, they often cut corners by cutting back on food.  A safety net that helps lift people out of poverty and that provides basic healthcare, employment assistance, and income support to people while they're struggling will help alleviate hunger long-term.  
  

I proudly add my voice to those who are calling on our policymakers in Sacramento to help us end hunger and promote nutrition and self-sufficiency in California.