Hunger Free Vermont advocates for expanded SNAP and Meals on Wheels funding

At the recent Senate Health and Welfare meeting in Vermont, a powerful call to action emerged to combat hunger in the state. Advocates from Hunger Free Vermont urged lawmakers to support critical legislation aimed at enhancing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known locally as 3 Squares Vermont.

The key proposal is to opt into the SNAP restaurant meals program, which would allow eligible individuals—particularly the elderly, disabled, and homeless—to use their benefits at authorized restaurants. This initiative aims to provide these vulnerable populations with greater access to hot, nutritious meals, addressing significant barriers they face in food access.

In addition to this, advocates requested $75,000 to cover startup costs for restaurants participating in the program, alongside a $100,000 allocation for a staff position within the Department for Children and Families to oversee the initiative. They also called for $500,000 in base funding to support local farms and food security through established programs like the SNAP incentive farmers market program and FarmShare.

Furthermore, the Vermont Food Bank is seeking $5 million in funding for disaster preparedness and food distribution, as well as an additional $2 million for home-delivered meals for older and disabled Vermonters through the Meals on Wheels program.

The meeting highlighted the urgent need for legislative support to strengthen food security in Vermont, where SNAP currently serves about 65,000 individuals, yet only reaches 40% of those eligible. Advocates emphasized that while SNAP is a vital resource, it cannot meet all needs alone, underscoring the importance of a comprehensive approach to food assistance.

As discussions continue, the outcome of these proposals could significantly impact the fight against hunger in Vermont, ensuring that all residents have access to the food they need to thrive.