Rep. Vargas Cosponsors the “Healthy Food Financing Initiative” Amendment
Washington, DC (May 15, 2013) –Rep. Juan Vargas (CA-51) joined Rep. Marcia Fudge (OH-11), as a cosponsor, in offering the “Healthy Food Financing Initiative” (HFFI) amendment, which would help small and independent businesses provide healthier food options, while addressing the limited access to healthy foods in the country. Today, the amendment was adopted into the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management (FARRM) Act in the House Committee on Agriculture.
“The ‘Healthy Food Financing Initiative’ (HFFI) will not only stimulate our local economies by creating jobs and helping small businesses, but it will also improve the health of our families and children, and reduce diet-related health issues,” stated Rep. Vargas. “Increasing access to healthy food options while improving our local economy is smart and necessary.”
HFFI is a public-private partnership that uses public dollars to attract private investment in communities by providing critical financing opportunities for food retailers, farmers markets, cooperatives, and others who face barriers to carrying and selling healthy foods. In addition, HFFI supports the expansion of existing stores so they can provide the healthier foods that consumers need.
“HFFI is an incredibly valuable program that has a wide range of beneficiaries and supporters, ranging from the public health sector to children’s and faith-based organizations,” said Vargas. “I am proud to have cosponsored an amendment that will make healthier foods more readily available to our families.”
Vargas represents the California 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire US/Mexico border. Vargas represented the 40th California State Senate District from 2010-2012, the 79th California State Assembly District from 2000 – 2006 and served on the San Diego City Council from 1993 – 2000.