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As pediatricians and members of the American Academy of Pediatrics – Colorado Chapter, we see firsthand how limited access to healthy food can undermine the potential of children. Malnourishment and stress impair a child’s immune function and worsen chronic disease, such as asthma. Impacted children can struggle with irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. And, as a result, these children are more likely to miss school and underperform academically.
Currently in Colorado, 14.3% of households with children can’t afford healthy food. This summer, Congress slashed billions of dollars from programs that help families put food on the table. If voters don’t take action this November, hunger will rise sharply across our state – more than 300,000 Colorado families, including children, older adults, and people with disabilities, are at risk of going hungry.
Fortunately, as voters, we can support access to healthy food for Colorado students and their families. Voting yes on propositions LL and MM will:
- Provide access to free school breakfast and lunch for all Colorado public school students.
- Provide our schools with the resources they need to prepare healthy and nutritious meals with ingredients from Colorado farmers and ranchers.
- Help Colorado families, older adults, and people with disabilities afford groceries.
Children shouldn’t have to worry about the cost of lunch, or skip a meal because their family can’t afford healthy food. Children should have the nourishment they need to thrive and concentrate.
By voting yes on LL and MM, we can continue Colorado’s successful Healthy School Meals for All program, so every child in Colorado can continue to get a healthy meal at school. Please feed Colorado’s children by voting yes on Propositions LL and MM.
Sandra Stenmark, MD, FAAP, is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical School. As a pediatrician, mother, and grandmother, she has advocated for improving maternal and child health.
Leisha Andersen, MD, MPH, FAAP, worked as a primary care pediatrician before redirecting her professional focus toward large-scale, preventative issues affecting pediatric health.
