• In California there are 5,231,478 families, with 9,504,625 children.  42% (3,981,521) of these children live in low-income families defined as income below 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL).  The annual FPL is $19,350 for a family of four.

• 17% of low-income families with children experience "very low food security."  Very low food security is defined by the USDA as occurring when the food intake of household members is reduced and their normal eating patterns are disrupted because the household lacks money and other resources for food.

• Research suggest that , on average, families need an income of about twice the federal poverty level to meet their most basic needs such as decent housing and sufficient food. Children living in families with incomes below this level—$40,000 for a family of four in 2006—are considered low-income.

• 56% of California’s low income children have at least one parent who is employed full-time year round ( National Center for Children in Poverty, Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health)

The Results of Child Hunger

• Hunger can impede a child’s cognitive development and their ability to learn.  It can contribute to behavioral, social, and emotional problems.  And many low-income children who suffer from very low food security are also dangerously overweight.
• For low-income families, poor access to nutritious and affordable food may contribute to and aggravate obesity and restrict opportunities for physical activity.  The problem is worsened by availability of less expensive, and typically, high-fat, high-calorie fast food meals in low-income neighborhoods.

The Solution to Child Hunger

• Ensure all California communities have access to nutritious & affordable food.

• Maximize participation in the federal Child Nutrition Programs, in particular the Summer Food Service Program.

• Strengthen the federal Food Stamp Program for working families.