Puerto Rico Forced to Slash Basic Food Aid While Waiting for Washington to Act

From: TruthOut 

By

Brynne Keith-Jennings,

Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

Published

March 8, 2019

Some 1.35 million low-income residents of Puerto Rico — more than a third of its population — reportedly have had, or will have, their food assistance benefits cut dramatically this month because its disaster food aid has run out and the President and Congress haven’t granted the governor’s request for $600 million more in funding. The House passed an aid package that includes the funds. A proposal introduced in the Senate also extends disaster food assistance for Puerto Rico, but the Senate must act quickly to ensure those still suffering in the aftermath of Hurricanes María and Irma can meet their basic food needs. MORE