Share your opinion. Write a letter to the editor.

With the November 17th release of the latest food insecurity numbers from USDA, we know that more than 36.2 million Americans struggled against hunger in 2007. But, we also know that 2008 is bringing even tougher times. Take this opportunity to send a letter to the editor at your local paper.

We have included a sample letter to the editor, but you may wish to customize it with the following points.

You may wish to include the latest hunger rates for your state. Click here for FRAC's press release and state charts.
Also, you may wish to add a line about rising need. Click here for the August 2008 SNAP/Food Stamp participation rates. Use the August 2007 - August 2008 charts to show the increase over the past year.

If you have any questions or need technical assistance, please contact Jennifer Adach at 202.986.2200 x3018 or jadach@frac.org.

Step 1 - Select a Recipient

Letter to the Editor

The Letter to the Editor Section is one of the most widely read sections of the newspaper and can reach a large audience. It allows community members to comment on the way issues are being addressed in the media and to influence the topics the local paper may choose to cover. Elected officials often monitor this section of the newspaper and take notice of constituents' opinions.

We've made it easy for you to contact your local newspaper with your views, but editors want to hear from you in your own words.

Step 2 - Write your message

Subject:

Your Letter:

Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released its latest “food insecurity” figures and found that there were 36.2 million Americans that struggled against hunger in 2007. That’s nearly one in eight Americans – and these staggering numbers don’t even include those that are facing tougher times in 2008.

Across our state, we hear about increased demand at food stamp and WIC offices, social service agencies, and emergency food providers. This shows us that growing economic troubles are overwhelming our community’s first responders to hunger. Our community -- and the nation -- urgently needs a boost in SNAP/Food Stamp benefits in the next stimulus package. It’s been recommended by economists from across the political spectrum – both as a necessary support for low-income people and as the best stimulus expenditure, dollar for dollar.

The need is high, and it is necessary for Congress to respond. The next stimulus package must provide support to struggling families. Our communities need this.

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Click on a point to add it to the letter.