Congressman Cleaver Applauds USDA Reversal, Decision to Extend Nutrition Program Waivers For Kids Learning Remotely

(Washington, D.C.) – Yesterday, following public outcry at the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) decision not to extend waivers that allow the Summer Food Service Program and the Seamless Summer Option to operate during school closures, the USDA reversed course and announced they will extend the waivers through the fall semester. United States Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), who publicly called for the reversal, applauded the announcement.

"Millions of American families rely on these critical nutrition programs, and they need flexibility as the nation continues to fight the coronavirus pandemic," said Congressman Cleaver. "Whether they are learning in school or remotely, thousands of children in Missouri count on these programs to get them through the school day without going hungry. By extending these waivers, we can ensure that every child has the support needed to succeed in their coursework until every school can safely reopen."

Last week, Congressman Cleaver condemned the USDA's announcement that they would allow these waivers to expire as the new school year began. Cleaver, along with over 100 other lawmakers in Congress, called on USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue to immediately reverse course and extend the waivers.

You can find the official letter from the lawmakers here.

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Blue Springs, Grain Valley, Oak Grove, North Kansas City, Gladstone, Claycomo, and all of Ray, Lafayette, and Saline Counties. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Chairman of the House Subcommittee on National Security, International Development, and Monetary Policy; member of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus. For more information, please contact Matt Helfant at 202-590-0175 or Matthew.Helfant@mail.house.gov A high-resolution photo of Congressman Cleaver is available here.