Jessica F. Simmons is a Reporter & Strategic Communications Producer for COURIER, covering community stories and public policies across the country. Featured in print, broadcast, and radio journalism, her work shows her passion for local storytelling and amplifying issues that matter to communities nationwide.
Jessica F. Simmons
Latest from Jessica F. Simmons
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‘Doing it with less’: More NC children than ever need free meals this summer
On Wednesdays in Raleigh, the promise at PlayWELL Park is simple: If a child can make it to the Poe Center for Health Education between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., they will be given a free lunch to eat. RELATED: Wilson workshop takes on SNAP cuts, hunger, and county budgets for NC families “This is…
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Wilson workshop takes on SNAP cuts, hunger, and county budgets for NC families
This week in Wilson, advocates will gather for a free workshop breaking down SNAP cuts, hunger, and what new federal rules could mean for families’ grocery budgets.
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Rep. Lopez proposes $85M plan to keep SNAP running for North Carolinians
As the federal government shifts SNAP costs to states, Rep. Lopez is pushing NC HB 1071 to provide millions to help counties cover the cost.
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Stillbirths are (still) affecting NC. A Murdock bill aims to change that
NC loses an average of 723 babies to stillbirth every year. Sen. Natalie Murdock’s bill would fund new counseling, training and outreach that advocates say could save roughly hundreds of those babies annually.
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How the abortion pill became a NC student’s lifeline—and a political target
Mifepristone, approved in 2000 by the FDA, is now the most common way to have an abortion. A lawsuit from Louisiana and a bill in Congress could change how—and whether—patients can get it.
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Gas is over $4 in NC. Can solar and wind “bomb-proof” your energy bills?
Gas has climbed past $4 a gallon as the Iran war drives up oil markets and food costs. Clean energy advocates say more solar and wind projects could make monthly bills harder to rattle.
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Inside ‘Human Shield,’ the documentary that chronicles abortion clinic escorts in NC and the US
A new documentary shows viewers the emotional journey abortion clinic escorts endure to help patients walk through the doors of abortion clinics in the US.
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SNAP cuts and ICE raids leave North Carolina children hungry
As federal raids swept immigrant neighborhoods and Republicans praised changes to SNAP, a small Charlotte nonprofit watched hunger spike among the children it serves.
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Black moms are dying from pregnancy-related causes. Sen. Murdock says North Carolina should try to stop it
As Gov. Josh Stein recognizes Black Maternal Health Week, Sen. Murdock is using the spotlight to press her Momnibus 3.5 bill and a broader “20 for 20” agenda she says could save people’s lives across the state.
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Trump says millions are ‘lifted’ off SNAP. A Charlotte nonprofit says hunger hasn’t gone away in NC
As federal work requirements expand SNAP cuts, food pantry leaders say families are still struggling to put food on the table.
