1. United States
2. Tenn.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to take immediate action to restore Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for Tennessee families. The recent announcement by the USDA that these crucial benefits won't be distributed next month is causing severe distress among our most vulnerable constituents. Consider the case of Hailey Privette from Mount Juliet, a mother of three young children who also cares for her grandparents and two teenage siblings. Her family of eight relies on approximately $1,000 in monthly SNAP benefits, which is already barely sufficient to meet their nutritional needs. With her grandmother facing serious health issues and only one full-time income in the household, the suspension of SNAP benefits threatens to push this family into a dire situation. The impact of this benefit suspension extends far beyond the Privette family. Across Middle Tennessee and the entire state, countless families are facing similar challenges. Without SNAP benefits, many will be forced to choose between paying bills and putting food on the table. This not only jeopardizes the health and well-being of our citizens but also places an enormous strain on local food banks and community resources. It's worth noting that 25 states, including our neighbor Kentucky, are taking legal action against the administration over this suspension of food stamp benefits. This demonstrates the widespread recognition of SNAP's critical importance to our communities. I implore you to work across party lines to end the government shutdown and ensure the immediate reinstatement of SNAP benefits. Every day that passes without action puts more Tennessee families at risk of hunger and financial instability. Please prioritize this issue in your legislative agenda and advocate for a swift resolution that protects our most vulnerable citizens. The strength of our state and nation depends on the well-being of all our people. By restoring SNAP benefits, we can prevent a looming crisis and demonstrate our commitment to supporting hardworking families like the Privettes who are striving to overcome challenging circumstances. Your leadership on this issue is crucial and urgently needed.