Congress needs to work for children

By Lisa Akana, Las Vegas

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014 | 2 a.m.

Sept. 30 came and went with little notice. For many, it’s just another day on the calendar. For me and other child-hunger advocates around the country, it’s an important marker.

That’s because one year from that date, Congress will have to renew the child nutrition bill, known as the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act. The bill funds programs that provide kids with healthy meals during school and, just as important, when kids are not in school such as during the summer, on weekends and in after-school programs.

I’m tired of seeing Congress accomplish nothing. And when it comes to children, I don’t believe this country can afford to wait. I hope Congress works together next year and passes a strong child nutrition bill that provides our kids with the fuel they need to be productive in the classroom and beyond, and ensures no child in this country goes to bed hungry. I, for one, will be watching.