Overwhelming, widespread support to address hunger, fund food stamps
DENVER (March 13, 2014) – Stripes do not matter when it comes to hunger in swing-state Colorado. According to a new statewide poll released today by Hunger Free Colorado, there is overwhelming, widespread support to address hunger and fund programs like food stamps, federally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
The poll, conducted by Kupersmit Research, a nonpartisan firm based in Denver, Colo.,
surveyed 400 registered Colorado voters in late November. Voters of all parties, ages and backgrounds from across the state participated in the telephone survey.
“This new poll shows voters do care about hunger, and that it’s a nonpartisan issue despite current rhetoric,” said Kathy Underhill, executive director for Hunger Free Colorado, the state’s leading anti-hunger, nonprofit advocacy organization. “It’s a myth that there isn’t widespread support to eradicate hunger, particularly through federal programs like food stamps, which serves as an economic bridge for those struggling to get by on a minimum-wage job or trying to get back on their feet due to a job loss, health issue or simply bad luck.”
Among the key findings:
Hunger is an important issue in Colorado, and more should be done by the government.
- Seven in 10 (70%) voters representing all parties feel that hunger is a very important issue, relative to all of the problems faced in Colorado.
- 55% would be more likely to vote for a candidate who makes hunger a top priority and favors programs that ensure no Coloradan goes hungry.
- Nearly six in 10 (57%) voters feel that the government is doing too little on the issue of hunger.
A majority of Colorado voters strongly oppose cuts to food stamps and support anti-hunger programs.
- Cutting food stamps is unpopular, with six in 10 (61%) voters in opposition.
- Majorities across the board (65%) oppose the federal government cutting programs that address hunger, in order to balance the budget, with 50% strongly against such measures.
View more poll findings, including a breakdown of these key findings by party affiliation. Find out more about the issue of hunger in Colorado online at HungerFreeColorado.org.
“This poll reinforces the need to protect and strengthen vital programs that provide Coloradans—from children to seniors—with access to nutritious food; the fuel to build better lives and stronger communities,” stated Underhill. “Our state and nation should make hunger a priority because the resources and sustainable solutions exist to ensure no one goes hungry.”
Media Contact: Michelle Ray, (720) 432-0255