This fall, the White House hosted the first Conference on Hunger, Health, & Nutrition since 1969, and our very own Mary Beth Snyder was selected to attend the conference on behalf of the North Texas Food Bank!

“Back in the spring, Feeding America reached out to the network of 200 food banks, asking for nominations for a person to attend the live conference. Metrocrest Services, a partner agency of the North Texas Food Bank, had recently held their Keyholder Breakfast. There, neighbors bravely stood up to speak about what a gift Metrocrest was to their community and to their lives. Mary Beth Snyder took the microphone and delivered passionate thoughts on solutions, why change is needed, and provided a voice for older Americans who didn’t expect to find themselves needing a food pantry. Thanks to Metrocrest Services, the choice of who to nominate was clear,” shared Dr. Valerie Hawthorne, North Texas Food Bank’s Director of Government Relations.

At the conference, Mary Beth spoke about her experience living on a limited income and dealing with the rising costs of basic necessities like food and rent. In addition, she learned how she could continue to advocate for ending hunger in our community. When asked to reflect on her experience, Mary Beth provided valuable insight and inspiration for all community members passionate about ending hunger.

What did you think of the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health?

“I was in awe and amazed to be sitting in a place to see our president in person and to hear him announce his goal of ending hunger in the United States by 2030. The organization of the days’ events and the timing of the presentations of the panels of speakers heightened my curiosity to learn more about the Cabinet-level officials and their accountability to this new national goal. After engaging in conversations and hearing the myriad of creative ways communities across America have already begun to use  to make this goal a reality, I became more enthusiastic about doing my part after I returned back home.” – Mary Beth Snyder

What is your reaction to Biden’s declaration on ending hunger in the U.S. by 2030?

“Just like most every person present, I applauded when he announced the goal of ending hunger by 2030. I raised my arms up in the air and joined my voice with the other voices in that room and exclaimed, “Here I am, President Biden! Pick me! Send me! I am ready! Let’s get going and make hunger a thing of the past!” – Mary Beth Snyder

Are you optimistic that the actions that came out of the conference will end hunger in the U.S. by 2030?

“I am hopeful that as changes are made and as policies are implemented, across every part of our society, we will see results. Ending hunger is noble but it is also necessary. It will take daily action across the board and on many levels. Every person will need to answer the call. I know I have a great deal to learn about a great many things.”  – Mary Beth Snyder

What is it like for you to live on a fixed income during one of the highest periods of inflation that we have faced in 40 years? What kinds of choices do you face?

“I live with a high level of uncertainty about affordability of long term housing. When my current lease expires, I am concerned if my fixed income will be enough to cover a very large increase in rent as well as for all other expenses. Or will I face the possibility of homelessness? I live a quiet and very simple, minimal life; I rarely purchase things except a few select groceries. I cannot afford many activities. I do not have an emergency fund. I use what I have; I make do and I do without. I have also learned to be content with the way my life is now.” – Mary Beth Snyder

Do you believe your voice can make a difference for other seniors struggling to make ends meet on a fixed income?

“Yes! I believe that by having learned to advocate for myself in these first few years of retirement that I can add my voice, along with strong support and action, to all the others who are helping our senior citizens to live out their lives in peace and purpose.” – Mary Beth Snyder

Before the conference, Feeding America, in partnership with The White House and local/national organizations, participated in listening sessions to hear from thousands of people who have lived with food insecurity. Out of the listening sessions came multiple reports and policy recommendations for our nation. Click here to learn more about Feeding America’s report.