By Susan B. Parks / Los Angeles Times’ Daily Pilot

Originally posted on the Los Angeles Times’ Daily Pilot.

Health, education and financial stability require determination and concentration. But who can concentrate when their stomach is growling?

Unfortunately for too many Orange County children and their families, food insecurity is standing in the way of a better life. That is why Orange County United Way urges the House and Orange County’s congressional delegation to place their focus on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

In our state, more than 4.2 million people, including veterans, the disabled, seniors and 2.3 million children are served by SNAP, or CalFresh as it is called in California, according to the Food Research & Action Center’s 2016 data.

This program is a vital, temporary lifeline for people who have jobs, but don’t earn enough to put food on the table.

Research finds that young children whose families receive SNAP are more likely to have regular access to food, be in good health and are at lower risk of developmental delays. Parents who receive this temporary support have less absenteeism and are more productive on the job.

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