Texas Gov. Greg Abbott cited uncertainty regarding federal matching as to why he vetoed the bill.
DALLAS — Being a single mother of two has its challenges.
“I have an autistic son, so I don’t work a traditional job,” said Kyrin Elmore, a Duncanville resident. “I have to go out and find ways to make money.”
That takes time, so she relies on Thriving Kinship, an organization started by Kemica Duty-Wright, Thriving Kinship, Inc. Founder and CEO. She and her team began providing resources such as food to grandparents taking care of children when relatives face difficult life-changing events.
“I’m starting to see single moms. I’m starting to see dads, and the lines are getting longer and longer and longer,” said Duty-Wright.
She expects the need to keep growing after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott recently vetoed a line item in SB 1 that would provide $60 million for the Summer EBT Program.
“That’s devastating because my kids use that over the years,” said Elmore.
“That’s more income that has to be spent on the children to make sure they have breakfast, lunch, and dinner through that one day for seven days a week,” said Duty-Wright.
In Abbott’s proclamation, he explained why he chose to veto the bill:
“As the contingency portions of this rider detail, there is significant uncertainty regarding federal matching rates for this and other similar programs. Once there is more clarity about the long-term fiscal ramifications for creating such a program, the Legislature can reconsider funding this item.”
Texas State Rep. Toni Rose represents areas of Southern Dallas County. In a statement, she said 93% of children in her district will continue to face summer hunger. That’s more than 30,000 children.
“Texas’s refusal to participate is not about a lack of resources, but a clear statement about state leaders’ priorities,” Rose said.
“I hope they really listen to the cries of the families,” said Duty-Wright.
Those cries keep Thriving Kinship, Inc. pushing.
“Let’s stick together as a community. It’s a need. It’s a need,” said Duty-Wright.
Thriving Kinship will host a food drive at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 27 at 4606 S. Polk St. in Dallas.
The organization is also taking food and monetary donations to help meet the need. To support, click here.