Advocating for Equity  at the National Anti-Hunger Policy Conference

As critical debates unfold on Capitol Hill, Food Connect joined organizations from across the country to speak out for equitable food systems and protections for the people most impacted by hunger.

In May, Food Connect Founder and CEO Megha Kulshreshtha and Food Connect Bay Area Regional Director JP Hailer traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the National Anti-Hunger Policy Conference, hosted by the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) and the National CACFP Forum. Alongside nonprofit leaders and advocates, we brought the voices and lived experiences of our communities directly to federal lawmakers—reinforcing why food access, justice, and dignity must remain a national priority.

What’s at Stake

Two major issues on the table right now will determine whether we move forward or fall back:

• The FARM (Food Access, Resilience, and Mobilization) Bill 2025
  
  
• Deep cuts to SNAP proposed in the 2025 Tax Bill

These changes would affect tens of millions of Americans—especially those who are already facing barriers to accessing nutritious food.

“We learned a ton about the challenges facing so many people—including children—and met inspiring colleagues we hope to collaborate with soon.”
— Megha Kulshreshtha, Food Connect CEO

Megha  joined leaders from the Mid-Atlantic Anti-Hunger Coalition to meet with Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania. He was receptive to hearing about the urgent need to preserve and strengthen federal nutrition programs like SNAP.

“Being a swing state, we hope he listens to the collective will of the people.”
— Megha Kulshreshtha, Food Connect CEO

JP joined advocates from the California Association of Food Banks to bring California’s anti-hunger priorities to Senators, Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff. Staff members for both Senators offered their support for federal nutrition programs.

“Overall I was grateful to be there” 

-JP 

As critical policy decisions unfold at both the state and federal levels, Food Connect is standing alongside partners nationwide to advocate for equitable food access. With deep cuts to SNAP and changes to the upcoming FARM Bill on the table, we’re raising our voices in Washington, D.C. to ensure the lived experiences of our communities are heard. 

Our goal beyond the conference was to raise awareness, share where we stand, and inspire action to protect and expand access to food—because justice in our food system can’t wait.

Who Will Be Most Affected

If passed, the proposed cuts to SNAP would significantly increase food insecurity among the most vulnerable populations:

• Children and Older Adults: Of the 42 million people on SNAP, 17 million are children and 6 million are older adults.
  
  
• Rural Communities: Over 15% of rural families rely on SNAP—communities where hunger and poverty could deepen if funding is slashed.
  
  
• Local Economies: SNAP cuts could reduce consumer spending and lead to job losses in grocery, agriculture, and food sectors.
  
  

‍

‍

The ripple effects are already visible across the regions where Food Connect works:

• Philadelphia Area: Over 713,000 people rely on SNAP—including nearly 500,000 in Philadelphia County alone.
  
  
• San Francisco Bay Area, California: In the 9 counties of the Bay Area more than 600,000 residents rely on CalFresh, yet enrollment remains low and re-enrollment is at risk.
  
  
• Kansas City Metro: Kansas reported 188,710 SNAP participants in 2024, with broader impact spanning into Missouri.
  
  
• Twin Cities, Minnesota: Nearly 400,000 residents in the metro area use SNAP to afford groceries.
  
  

At the same time, farmers anticipate increased food waste from excess produce, while local food pantries are under strain trying to meet growing demand.

Our Commitment

Food Connect stands in full support of FRAC’s SNAP policy priorities and will continue to advocate for strong, equitable federal nutrition programs. We believe that access to food is a right—not a privilege—and that our systems should reflect that.

‍

Learn more and get involved:
SNAP Advocacy Toolkit (PDF)

‍

What’s Next: Local Voices, United Action

Our work doesn't stop in May. This summer, Food Connect will work in collaboration with our anti-hunger heroes to bring together local leaders from our regions, organizational partners, and coalition members to continue elevating the urgent need to protect and expand SNAP.

We are committed to ensuring that those most affected are heard—and that policy reflects the realities on the ground.

Take action with us:

• Share your story.
• Contact your representatives.
• Stand with us in the fight for food justice.

Visit foodconnectgroup.org for updates and ways to get involved.

‍