Bill Would Increase Children's Access To Healthy Food

BOSTON (AP) — Health care advocates are pushing a bill aimed at increasing children's access to healthy food in Massachusetts.

Supporters say the bill takes a holistic approach to children's well-being by improving access to food assistance.

The bill also aims to reduce barriers to emergency shelter and ensure all children are screened for medical issues and can get to medical appointments.

Backers say children without health care are more likely to be in poor health and perform poorly in school. And children who are homeless or don't have stable housing are more likely to exhibit mental and behavioral health needs.

Supporters of the bill are planning to gather at the Statehouse Tuesday ahead of a public hearing on the bill by the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities.