Food stamps help families with kids

As an organization working to end childhood hunger in Maryland, Share Our Strength appreciates your editorial about the merits of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program ("Food stamp recipients are the new welfare queens," Dec. 4).

Three-quarters of all SNAP benefits go to families with kids. Over time, SNAP has proven to be efficient, effective and fraud is at a historic low. Critical federal child nutrition programs like SNAP and school breakfast are vital to the well being of America's children. Benefits received through SNAP ensure food is on the table and decrease the childhood poverty rate.

Led by Gov. Martin O'Malley, the Partnership to End Childhood Hunger in Maryland is breaking down barriers that prevent Maryland's children from accessing child nutrition programs such as SNAP and ensuring our children have healthy foods where they live, learn and play.

Hungry children are voiceless. We need to be their voice and ensure safety nets like SNAP remain available so our children get the chance to thrive they deserve.

Anne Sheridan

The writer is director of the Maryland No Kid Hungry Campaign.