The Jewish public policy umbrella urged the U.S. Congress to approve a relief package for the poor.
The Appropriations for Job Creation and Preservation, Infrastructure Investment, and Economic and Energy Assistance Act includes $2.6 billion in food assistance for the poor and an expansion of unemployment insurance from 20 weeks to 27 weeks. Congress was set to consider the act as it winds down in coming days.
“The current financial crisis has overshadowed a long-term economic downturn that has seen an historic increase in unemployment, rising food costs, and a growing number of Americans simply unable to make ends meet,” said a statement issued Sept. 26 by the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, the consensus-driven umbrella for national and local public policy groups.
“Before Congress adjourns, senators and representatives have an opportunity to address the looming financial crisis by providing direct relief to those most affected by the economic downturn.”
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