Today, the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America, the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, expressed its appreciation to Congress for passing H.R. 2, the bipartisan Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 which maintains the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at full funding.

SNAP benefits provide crucial access to food assistance to millions of American families in need. The inclusion of SNAP in the larger agricultural legislation supports an important responsibility of the larger Jewish community to help those who are less fortunate.

The Orthodox Union is also pleased by the inclusion of additional job training opportunities and expanded access to healthy foods for Americans participating in SNAP. Such programs will increase the likelihood of success for participants seeking improved employment and health.

Said Orthodox Union President Mark (Moishe) Bane:
“We commend Congress for working together to pass this legislation that will help those who rely on SNAP to put food on the table. We express particular appreciation for the leadership of Senate Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) and ranking member Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and U.S. Reps. Michael Conaway (R-Texas) and Collin Peterson (D-Minn.).

Orthodox Union Executive Director for Public Policy Nathan Diament stated:
“The Orthodox Union is committed to providing dignified relief to children and families in need. SNAP’s critical safety net supports the work to which houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations across the nation have long been committed.”