Expresses support of the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana in its efforts to fight hunger and promote support for the value and need of nutritional feeding programs.
Impact
The support for the Second Harvest Food Bank signifies a broader commitment to address the urgent issue of hunger in Louisiana. The resolution aims to raise awareness and encourage citizens to participate in initiatives that alleviate food insecurity. Specifically, it mentions programs like the Lagniappe Backpack program, which ensures that children at risk of hunger receive essential nutrition, especially during school vacations and weekends. Such supports are crucial in maintaining the health and quality of life for many Louisianians who struggle with hunger, particularly during times of crisis or disaster.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 13 expresses support for the Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana in its mission to combat hunger and promote nutritional feeding programs. The resolution highlights the critical need for such initiatives, particularly as more than 14% of Louisiana's population is food insecure, including a significant number of children and seniors. It underscores programs that provide nutritious food to school children and supports vulnerable populations who face daily challenges in accessing adequate food supplies, thus emphasizing the importance of these feeding programs in fostering community health and well-being.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SR13 predominantly leans towards positivity and community solidarity. Lawmakers and advocates express a unified stance on the importance of tackling hunger and supporting nutritional programs. The resolution invites all Louisianians to join in a day-long fast, demonstrating empathy and unity with those who are food insecure. This call to action reflects a community-driven approach to address systemic issues related to hunger and the need for comprehensive support mechanisms.
Contention
While SR13 is largely supportive of the Second Harvest Food Bank's initiatives, the underlying issue of hunger reveals various community challenges, such as poverty and accessibility to food resources. The resolution draws attention to the stark realities faced by many Louisiana residents, particularly seniors who are disproportionately affected by hunger. Addressing these persistent problems requires ongoing collaboration, funding, and volunteer support from the community to sustain and expand these vital programs, highlighting the need for collective action to ensure no one goes hungry.
Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS
Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.