Garner, known for her roles on TV shows such as “Alias” and in films including “The Dallas Buyers Club” and “13 Going on 30,” is a trustee for Save the Children. She also makes home visits on behalf of the program to speak for those in poverty.

Also, her mother grew up on a farm in Locust Grove as one of 10 children before going to college and moving with her husband to West Virginia, where Garner was raised. She describes herself as “one generation and one holler away from poverty,” and knew many friends facing hardships while growing up.

“I couldn’t stand up for them back then, but I can stand up for them now,” Garner testified. “Poverty is silent. Go into those homes and listen for the sounds of adult conversation. There is none. Listen for children laughing or crying. Poverty is silent.”

Garner said federal grants used by Save the Children allow for home visits to teach mothers how to connect with their babies and toddlers. While it may seem instinctual or common sense for a parent to read, talk, laugh or play with a child, some parents deprived of those basic comforts as children never learn how to pass them on.