Vermont legislators urged to fund Meals on Wheels and SNAP benefit programs

The Senate Agriculture meeting held on February 6, 2025, in Vermont focused on critical issues surrounding food security and support for local farmers. A significant proposal discussed was the request for an additional $2 million in funding for home-delivered meals for older Vermonters, specifically through the Meals on Wheels program. This funding aims to enhance support for vulnerable populations in the state.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as 3 Squares Vermont. This program assists low-income individuals and families in purchasing groceries, with eligibility extending to those earning up to 85% of the federal poverty line. Currently, approximately 65,000 individuals, or nearly 40,000 households, benefit from SNAP in Vermont. However, it was noted that only about 40% of potentially eligible Vermonters are enrolled in the program, leaving many without adequate food support.

The economic impact of SNAP was emphasized, with around $13 million circulating monthly within the state, benefiting local farmers and businesses. Programs like Crop Cash Plus and Farm Share were mentioned as initiatives that encourage spending SNAP benefits at farmers' markets, further supporting the agricultural sector.

Concerns were raised about rising food insecurity, particularly as pandemic-related government support has ended. The meeting underscored the need for a robust safety net that includes not only SNAP but also local food access programs and meal care initiatives for older adults.

Legislators were urged to take action by supporting various funding requests, including $500,000 for NOFA's farm share and crop cash programs, $5 million for the Vermont Food Bank, and the proposed $2 million for Meals on Wheels. The discussions highlighted the critical role of policymakers in ensuring food security for all Vermonters and supporting local agriculture in the face of ongoing economic challenges.