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Ask Your Members of Congress to Co-Sponsor the AFTERschool Meals Act

Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Richard Lugar (R-IN) and Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI) and Andre Carson (D-IN) introduced S. 990/H.R. 3321, the “Afterschool Flexibility to Expand Reimbursement for School Meals Act of 2009” (also known as the “AFTERschool Meals Act of 2009”). This legislation authorizes a nationwide expansion of the Afterschool Meal Program, allowing children from all states to benefit from a nutritious meal after school.

Under current law, only thirteen states and the District of Colmbia can operate this program. It gives schools the option of operating suppers through the School Lunch/Breakfast Programs or through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), easing program administration for some schools. It also authorizes grants to states to encourage schools and institutions to participate.

Afterschool programs are vitally important as parents work longer, non-traditional hours, and many more children require afterschool care. This bill would dramatically expand access and improve the lives of millions of low-income children.

Action Needed
Contact your Members of Congress today. Use the form below to send them an e-mail, asking them to co-sponsor S. 990/H.R. 3321, the AFTERschool Meals Act of 2009.

February 09, 2010

Subject:
Please Co-Sponsor the AFTERschool Meals Act (S.990/H.R. 3321)

Dear Member of Congress:

I am writing to request that you co-sponsor “The AFTERschool Meals Act of 2009,” S. 990/H.R. 3321, sponsored by Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Richard Lugar (R-IN) and Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI) and Andre Carson (D-IN).  This legislation would authorize a nationwide expansion of the Afterschool Meal Program, giving schools the option of operating suppers through the School Lunch/Breakfast Programs or through the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), easing program administration for some schools and also provides funding to encourage participation.  

Currently, only thirteen states—Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Vermont—and the District of Columbia can operate this important program.   

The Act would ensure that low-income children have access to a nutritious meal after school. The nutritious suppers draw children into educational and enrichment activities that not only keep children learning, but also keep them safe during the after school hours, when juvenile crime peaks. Evaluations of afterschool programs show that children who participate are less likely to be involved in crime, and have lower incidences of drug use, violence and pregnancy.  

Please co-sponsor the “AFTERschool Meals Act of 2009” (S. 990/H.R. 3321) so that low-income children in all states can have the opportunity to participate in afterschool meal programs.  

Sincerely,

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