Scherer Introduces Bill to Provide Food Assistance for All Foster Children

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing her lifelong efforts to uplift children and their families, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, introduced legislation that would expand access to food assistance for foster families.

“Foster families already face so many obstacles, this legislation will help relieve some of the stress placed on these homes,” said Scherer. “Foster parents carry a great load by caring for our children who are in unfortunate circumstances. We must look for ways to utilize resources to unburden and support them.”

Scherer’s House Bill 1632 would make all foster families eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Access Program (SNAP) benefits. Currently, the state considers foster children as boarders, making them ineligible for SNAP benefits. Scherer’s legislation will reverse this rule by making all children in foster care eligible for SNAP benefits, regardless of foster parent income.

“This legislation is another step to support our most vulnerable working families and children,” Scherer said. “I would encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make a commitment to uplift these children by supporting this bill.”  Rep. Sue Scherer represents the cities of Springfield and Decatur. For more information on this and other news, please call Rep. Sue Scherer at (217) 877-9636 or send an email to staterepsue@gmail.com.