Child Nutrition

As a father of five, I understand the positive effects that good nutrition has in helping a child develop and remain alert throughout the course of a school day. In fact, maintaining a proper balance of foods for nutrition is vital for not only children but expectant mothers as well.

The Senate Agriculture Committee, on which I sit, has jurisdiction over nutrition-related legislation and examines such issues as child nutrition programs and food programs for those who may not be able to afford the foods their children need.

I am pleased to have contributed to legislation intended to end hunger for low-income children throughout the nation. I will work to ensure child nutrition programs receive the funding they deserve, so that Idaho children will continue to benefit.

For example, the Child Nutrition Act, originally passed by Congress in 1966, authorizes a number of programs including the National School Lunch Program, child and adult care food program, and WIC (Women, Infants and Children).  I have worked over a number of years to make certain that legislation that goes through my various committees addresses child nutrition needs and provides appropriate federal resources to combat this troubling circumstance.

Useful Links:

USDA's Commodity Food Network: This site is a is a one-stop Federal website that provides direct access to all services and resources available for the USDA Commodity Food Distribution Programs.

Food and Nutrition Service (FNS): Use this link to learn more about food assistance programs that are available for children and families. The FNS provides children and low-income people access to food, a healthful diet, and nutrition education.