Act Now: Farm Bill Vote Could Impact SNAP and Hunger Ministries

The latest update from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry Arizona (LAMA) highlights an urgent moment for hunger advocacy, along with multiple opportunities for learning, connection, and action in the weeks ahead.

Action Alert: Farm Bill Vote This Week
The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to vote on the Farm Bill this week. As currently proposed, the bill would include deep cuts to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) while underfunding key rural development, conservation, and farm programs. LAMA and the ELCA are urging advocates to act now—contacting lawmakers and strengthening hunger provisions before the vote.

The ELCA Action Alert (updated April 28) includes an op-ed by Bishop Deborah Hutterer and advocacy resources to help individuals and congregations respond faithfully and effectively.

Upcoming Events & Opportunities to Engage
Several opportunities are available for those seeking to deepen their involvement in hunger and justice work:

• Anti-Hunger & Food Systems Advocacy Call
  Friday, May 1 | 12:00–1:00 PM (AZ/NV)
  Connect with advocates across Arizona for updates and collaboration.

• ELCA Domestic Hunger Grants Webinar
  Wednesday, May 6 | 10:00–11:00 AM
  Learn how to apply for 2027 Domestic Hunger Grants. Letters of inquiry are due July 1.

• Addressing Misinformation in the Food System
  Thursday, May 7 | 10:00–11:30 AM
  Explore key issues including SNAP eligibility and federal food policy narratives.

• LAMA Liaison Roundtable
  Monday, May 18 | 6:30–7:30 PM (Zoom)
  Discuss congregational engagement in advocacy.

Additional gatherings include the AFN Social Justice Commission, Faithful Voter AZ Committee, and Cherishing Creation Collaborative.

From the LAMA Blog
This week’s highlights include:

• Bishop Hutterer’s op-ed, “No One Should Have to Fight This Hard for Daily Bread,” addressing the dramatic decline in SNAP participation in Arizona.

• Updates on Domestic Hunger Grants, now accepting letters of inquiry.

• Resources for Bread for the World’s 2026 Offerings of Letters.

• Additional ELCA Action Alerts on hunger policy and asylum employment protections.

Why This Matters
As Lutherans, advocacy is an expression of our baptismal calling to serve our neighbor. In a time when access to food is increasingly uncertain for many, LAMA’s work reminds us that faith is not passive—it is active, public, and grounded in justice.

We encourage you to read the full LAMA newsletter, share it with your networks, and take action this week.

👉 Read the full LAMA newsletter and explore all resources at LAMAz.org.