"It is important that we dispel this narrative, this false narrative out there that somehow people who are on this benefit do not want to work."
"I believe that hospitals are one of the basic physical and organizational facilities needed for communities to thrive, no matter the size, location, or demographics."
"Over the past year, rural hospitals answered the call to service during the COVID-19 pandemic."
"We know that rural hospitals and health systems face enormous challenges."
"These large expenses can be a huge burden, given our lack of access to capital."
"Meaningful investment in rural America and rural infrastructure is critical to our nation's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic."
"SNAP is perhaps the most important anti-hunger program that we have, and charity can't do it alone."
"This is not a charity. This is our moral obligation. We all ought to be committed to making sure that nobody in this county is food-insecure or goes hungry."
"As a Member of Congress, I am ashamed that so many people in this country don't know where their next meal is going to come from."
"far too often the commentary that comes out of Washington, D.C. does more to stigmatize people than help people get back on their feet."
"I appreciate both of you for your courage and for coming and sharing your stories, and I look forward to continuing to work with you and others on this panel."
"Hunger is not inevitable--it's a policy choice."