With widespread reports of increased demand at emergency feeding outlets throughout the country, some states have approved additional state funding to assist food banks and emergency food providers with commodities and other assistance. In the absence of full federal restorations of nutrition program assistance, the states will continue to face stiff challenges in filling the food gap for many needy people. While states are unlikely to replace the full amount of federal aid that has been withdrawn, the track record to date indicates that states can be encouraged to help mitigate the problem of hunger. States have opportunities to improve their records and the availability of food assistance to vulnerable people. First, with respect to jobless food stamp recipients, state action is required each year for area waivers to be renewed or expanded.
States can undertake new economic analyses to maximize the bases for such waivers.
Second, states can build on initial implementation of the 1997 Budget Act authority for employment and training programs and caseload exemptions to assist jobless adults subject to the three month food stamp cut off. Fourth, states can provide funding for meal reimbursements and start up grants to enhance the reach of the Summer Food and School Breakfast Programs. Fifth, states can continue and increase their support for emergency food programs. Hunger has a cure. State governments can play at least a supporting role in that cure.