Mary Carman: Childhood hunger is not acceptable in Oregon
Mary Carman: Childhood hunger is not acceptable in Oregon
Mary Carman is a longtime resident of Oregon, currently living in Tualatin. She is a Food Assistance Network Strategist at Oregon Food Bank and serves on the board of directors for the Farmers Market Fund, which is responsible for the Double Up Food bucks program. In her free time, she enjoys going on walks at the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, reading, and tending to her front yard garden.
I am a resident of Tualatin, employee of Oregon Food Bank, and board member of Farmers Market Fund. Despite living in a state with so much abundance, I am surrounded by hunger and poverty, and it is crucial for the Oregon legislature to adopt Food for All Oregonians, Senate Bill 611.
Food insecurity rates have increased so exponentially nationwide, they are the highest in history. As a liaison between Oregon Food Bank and more than 55 partner sites, I hear the same thing every visit: there isn’t enough food, clients are desperate, and every day those numbers grow.
I have met hundreds of clients, and I know the only way to support them in the ways they need are through programs like SNAP, so they have autonomy and dignity of choice, can access culturally relevant foods, and support the local economy.
This year, I have increased my civic engagement, and I hear the same thing every visit: there are so many important issues and not enough money. I have yet to hear a legislator name a higher priority than childhood hunger.
I am an immigrant who is comfortable and resourced, unlike many who have come here and contribute their labor and tax dollars. And while school meals can be supplemental, it does not solve hunger in the home.
If Food for All Oregonians is not passed, it tells me a certain amount of childhood hunger is acceptable in this state. It must be prioritized, and it must be passed.
Please take a moment today to tell lawmakers: Food for All Oregonians must be part of the state budget.
