25 signatures reached
To: The 38th Guam Legislature
A Petition to Pass the "Meals for At-risk Households Act of 2025"
We, the undersigned residents and supporters of Guam, humbly urge the Honorable Members of I Liheslaturan Guåhan to enact Bill No. 78-38 (COR) that aims to establish the Guam Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) in our community.
Approximately 23% of SNAP households in Guam include individuals who are elderly, disabled, or homeless. Because these groups often face barriers to meal preparation (such as lack of facilities or physical limitations), they are likely to experience food insecurity due to limited access to nutritionally adequate and safe foods. Food-insecure people are especially vulnerable to poor nutrition, which is linked with increased risk of diet-related diseases as well as higher healthcare costs.
The Restaurant Meals Program is a proven federally funded initiative that addresses food insecurity by allowing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants who face barriers to preparing meals at home—specifically the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and homeless individuals—to purchase affordable, healthy meals from authorized restaurants. In 2023 over 3,000 restaurants were participating in the RMP implemented in nine states across the nation (see the compiled image above of a few of the logos used by RMP vendors). By adopting this program, Guam can take a significant step toward reducing hunger and improving the well-being of our most vulnerable populations.
Sponsored by Senator Shelly V. Calvo, Bill No. 78-38 (COR), also known as the “Meals for At-risk Households Act of 2025, ” aims to implement the RMP under the SNAP in Guam. The bill proposes amendments to sections of Guam law to enable eligible SNAP participants to purchase prepared meals from authorized restaurants. The program will be locally administered by the Division of Public Welfare within the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS).
Why is this important?
The RMP combats food insecurity.
Guam is not immune to the challenges of hunger. Implementing the RMP ensures equitable access to nutrition for individuals who may not have the means or facilities to cook their own meals.
The RMP empowers local businesses.
The program provides an economic boost to participating restaurants, creating new opportunities for growth and community engagement.
The RMP supports vulnerable populations.
The elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness often face unique challenges in accessing food. The RMP offers dignity and choice in meeting their nutritional needs.
We believe that passing Bill No. 78-38 (COR) is not only a compassionate and inclusive decision but also a pragmatic step toward fostering a healthier and more equitable Guam.
We urge I Liheslaturan Guåhan to take immediate action and make the Restaurant Meals Program a reality on our island.
How it will be delivered
Bill No. 78-38 (COR) is scheduled for a public hearing at the Guam Congress Building on April 15, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Signatures will be submitted via electronic mail to the Chairperson of the Committee of Health and Veterans Affairs, 38th Guam Legislature.