Letter: Bring back summer grocery assistance for Indiana’s Children
Pick up your phone and call Governor Mike Braun now. Say, “Feed the children during the summer. Bring back summer’s SUN BUCKS!” After that, reach out to Senator Daryl Schmit (District 48) at 800-382-9467 and State Rep Shane Lindauer (District 63) at 317-232-9717. Convey the same message to them. Let’s find out if we can get these elected officials to reconsider feeding Indiana’s kids this summer.
Funding for SUN BUCKS, which provided grocery assistance for Indiana’s children during the summer, has been eliminated. Previously, families received $120 per child for food when schools were closed. This program not only benefited the children but also helped grocers, as the additional funds supported their sales during that time.
“The fiscal year ended with a surplus of $676 million,” according to a report by State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla issued on February 4. While we should avoid providing unhealthy foods in line with Governor Braun’s ban on sugary items for SNAP, surely some of our budget surplus could be utilized to cover protein, fruits, vegetables, bread, butter, milk, cereal, and nuts for the summer SUN BUCKS program.
The concept of the “Common Good” is a fundamental principle that resonates deeply with the people of Indiana. We have a tradition of looking out for one another and supporting our neighbors. However, neighborhoods have changed over the years, and many of us may no longer know our neighbors. As a result, local and state governments have increasingly taken on the responsibility of collecting taxes and managing programs designed to promote the “Common Good.” There is nothing wrong with this governmental role. It is a good thing.
Greater Jasper Schools is committed to the Common Good by serving the community this summer with Free Breakfast and Free Lunch at Jasper Elementary School for children up to the age of 18. Breakfast is served on weekdays from 7:30 a.m to 8:30 a.m. for 30-40 children, and lunch is available from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. for 120-130 kids. Adults can eat with their children for $5. The program runs until August 7, and children are required to eat in the cafeteria.
When you’re out shopping for bird seed and plant food, remember that God’s other young creatures need nourishment too! After that, pick up your phone and call Governor Braun, Daryl Schmit, and Shane Lindauer now. A healthy child has a better chance of growing into a healthy adult.
Jane Dudine Fischer
Jasper
Editor’s Note: Southwest Dubois County School Corporation also offers meals.
