Press Releases

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) today highlighted the importance of targeted education for those on nutrition assistance during a House Agriculture Subcommittee on Nutrition hearing examining the success of employment and job-training programs.

“Helping people find good-paying, long-term employment in a high-demand industry is the best way to ensure everyone has access to economic opportunities,” DelBene said. “I’m so pleased the pilot programs I authored in the Farm Bill are testing innovative strategies to improve Employment and Training Programs across the country, and today’s hearing was a great forum to examine their progress. These are smart investments to help those on nutrition assistance become self-sufficient by giving them the specialized training and education needed to increase their earning potential. These investments we make not only have an incredible effect on our economy, but also on people’s lives. We can decrease future federal spending, while also reducing hunger and unemployment across the country.”

As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, DelBene helped shepherd a five-year Farm Bill to final passage last Congress by serving on the conference committee. Using criteria from Washington’s successful Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program, DelBene was able to include $200 million for U.S. Department Agriculture (USDA) competitive grant pilot programs in 10 states over three years to expand employment and job-training opportunities for those on nutrition assistance. Washington state received $22 million to conduct its pilot program, which will help those most in need find stable employment.

DelBene introduced David Stillman, the Assistant Secretary for the Economic Services Administration, Department of Social and Health Services for Washington State, who participated in the hearing as a witness. Video of DelBene at the hearing can be found HERE.

September is also Hunger Action Month.

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