Sept. 6, 2022 – The Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma will host U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas for a townhall to discuss the Farm Bill from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 26.

The Farm Bill impacts access to nutritious food for millions of people in America living with hunger. Included in the bill is funding for key federal nutrition programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and the Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP). The Farm Bill is reauthorized every five years. The Farm Bill is set for reauthorization in 2023.

Congressman Lucas has previously served on the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, acting as chair of the committee from 2011 to 2015. He helped to write the 2002, 2008, 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills.

“Every five years, Congress takes up the immense responsibility of crafting the Farm Bill. While Farm Bills are critical to agriculture producers who grow the food and fiber that feeds and clothes millions across the globe, Farm Bills also include programs that help address an insecurity that too many in our communities face: hunger,” Congressman Lucas said. “The Regional Food Bank and the hundreds of community-based partner agencies across Oklahoma are doing tremendous work to serve families and individuals in need. I, and countless community leaders, are grateful for the work of the Regional Food Bank and I look forward to partnering with them at the Townhall on Hunger to discuss how Congress can better work with local leaders and institutions to provide meals to Oklahomans.”

The townhall will serve as an opportunity for Oklahomans to share perspectives that the Congressman can take into consideration. Throughout the townhall, Congressman Lucas will answer questions related to the bill from attendees.

“Congressman Lucas has long been a supporter of food banks and the programs supported by the Farm Bill,” said Stacy Dykstra, chief executive officer of the Regional Food Bank. “We look forward to welcoming him as we work to strengthen the programs that put meals on the tables for thousands of Oklahomans every year.”

The townhall will be held on the second floor of the Regional Food Bank’s Volunteer Center at 3355 S. Purdue Ave. in Oklahoma City. Those unable to attend in person can watch the townhall online. All attendees are asked to register at rfbo.org/townhall by noon on Monday, Sept. 26.