Washington, D.C. (February 17, 2022) – Save the Children Action Network, the political advocacy arm of Save the Children, is excited by all the New Mexico legislature accomplished for kids during this year’s session, which ended today.

The Food, Farm and Hunger Initiative – developed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in collaboration with hundreds of stakeholders statewide – was fully funded at $24 million. This is the largest-ever investment in the fight against child hunger in New Mexico. The ground-breaking initiative will significantly expand access to nutritious food for thousands of young New Mexicans, and promote positive change in parent behavior regarding healthy eating.

“We applaud Governor Lujan Grisham for her leadership in combatting child hunger in New Mexico and sincerely commend policymakers for supporting her in this important fight,” said Lacey Daniell-Miller, Save the Children Action Network’s New Mexico State Manager. “This historic investment will benefit New Mexico’s youngest for years to come, while simultaneously supporting key communities and industries throughout the state. We are so excited to see this initiative fully funded, and proud to have worked along our many coalition partnerships in advocating for this vital program.”

The legislature also approved increased funding for the Early Childhood Education and Care Department, which will expand preschool access, increase early educator wages, newly invest in early childhood programs for New Mexico’s 23 tribes and pueblos and grow the state’s home visiting programs and mental health supports. Furthermore, the legislature notably passed a state child tax credit, crucial to the livelihoods of New Mexico families, many of which are still struggling from pandemic-related hardships. 

 “Once again, our governor and policymakers have rallied in strong support of children and families this legislative session,” continued Daniell-Miller. “As New Mexico’s children and families continue to face challenges related to COVID-19, these critical investments couldn’t come at a better time. We commend the legislature for acting in the best interest of New Mexico’s youngest – our future.”

Throughout the legislative session, Save the Children Action Network advocates in New Mexico sent over 1,000 postcards and hundreds of emails to their legislators in support of these child-centric provisions. Save the Children Action Network will continue to work in close partnership with coalition partners, Governor Lujan Grisham and state policymakers to ensure all children have the early learning opportunities and nutrition needed to thrive in school and in life. 

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Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Since our founding more than 100 years ago, we’ve changed the lives of more than 1 billion children. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.