HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 2017-4605, by Representatives Peterson, Stonier, Appleton, Lytton, Sells, Pollet, Frame, Jinkins, Riccelli, Ryu, Senn, Kagi, and Macri

WHEREAS, Agriculture is a vital industry in Washington state, accounting for 13 percent of the economy; and

WHEREAS, Washington state is home to more than 37,000 farms, of which over 80 percent are individual and family owned; and

WHEREAS, Washington state's agriculture industry employs over 160,000 people; and

WHEREAS, All children deserve access to nutritious, high-quality food; and

WHEREAS, Children need to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day to get essential vitamins and minerals; and

WHEREAS, In Washington state, 1 in 5 children lives in a household that struggles with hunger and 14 percent of families are food insecure, without reliable access to affordable, nutritious food; and

WHEREAS, Washington students' ability and readiness to learn is a critical factor in acquiring the knowledge and skills to be successful in the workforce; and

WHEREAS, Washington state's future economic welfare rests with the students of today; and

WHEREAS, Community connections between schools and farmers would provide nutritious, locally grown food for children and economic opportunities for Washington farmers;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognize the importance of combating childhood hunger; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives acknowledge the economic and educational benefits of connecting schools and local farmers; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives commend advocacy groups and local farm to community coalitions across the state for their efforts to end hunger in Washington.

 

I hereby certify this to be a true and correct copy of

Resolution 4605 adopted by the House of Representatives

January 23, 2017

 

 

 

 

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Bernard Dean, Chief Clerk