Children Affected by the Recession Targeted in New Bill

The recent economic hardships have been on the minds of millions of Americans as unemployment rates remain high. Impacts are echoed across the landscape with a stringent effect upon the vulnerabilities present only to children. The Act Concerning Children in the Recession, Bill No. – 5360, presented by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Assembly of the state of Connecticut, seeks to identify particular areas of concern and avenues necessary in preventing hardship among children. To raise awareness of such social concerns and to identify efforts necessary for relief is monumental in bill appropriateness and effectiveness.
I was very excited to be present to hear the testimonials delivered by members of the Children and the Recession Task Force from varying individuals and groups affected by the recession. The bill identifies the following state and federal agencies to provide aid and relief to children affected by the recession: the Department of Social Services; Public Health, Education, and Children and Families on topics of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; Unemployment; and Medical insurance.
End Hunger CT! held a place in providing testimonials upon the relevance of SNAP benefits and the aid of federal programs currently in place to provide a means for relief. Such federal programs as school breakfast programs and the Summer Food Service Program are both available for school districts and can be utilized by the state.
Unfortunately, Connecticut currently ranks last in the country for school breakfast participation. Absolute funding is available through federal funds; however, it appears outreach efforts are necessary to increase awareness of such programs toward qualifying districts and persons.
I look forward to seeing increased attention placed upon such efforts as we seek to alleviate hardships manifesting upon the children in Connecticut and abroad. It is obvious that the hardships established through the recession have impacted us all in indifferent ways. Some, more than others, become more vulnerable to the stresses and inefficiencies of the state. Through the Act Concerning Children of the Recession, we as a state can address such concerns and provide the relief and opportunity each child deserves.

Kristin Hantzos, EHC! Intern