Culinary Leaders Across America Support SNAP

Dear Members of Congress,

As chefs and culinary professionals, we strongly oppose the significant cuts and changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) being considered by Congress. The proposed cuts and harmful changes would significantly limit access to fresh and healthy food for those who need it the most. 

As culinary leaders, we have built our careers around the power of food—not just as a means of nourishment, but as a way to bring people together and strengthen communities. Every day, we see the impact that access to nutrition has on people’s lives. At a time when millions of Americans are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of food, it’s more important than ever before to protect SNAP, one of our nation’s most powerful tools to end hunger. 

We know hunger is not just a statistic—it’s a reality we witness in our own communities and in the neighborhoods where we cook. Across the country, 40 million people, including 1 in 5 children, participate in the program. SNAP is a safe and effective way to feed children. It supplements a family’s food budget, ensuring they can provide nutritious meals without sacrificing other essential needs. No one should have to choose between paying rent and feeding their family. 

Congress must reject harmful cuts and changes to important anti-hunger programs like SNAP that help families put food on tables across the country. 

Sincerely, 

Rachael Ray and the undersigned chefs