The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Human Services convened on March 13, 2025, to discuss critical funding for various programs aimed at addressing food insecurity in Oregon. The meeting highlighted the importance of the Double Up Food Bucks program, which allows SNAP recipients to double their purchasing power for fresh produce at participating outlets.

The session began with a presentation supporting continued funding for the Double Up Food Bucks program. Advocates emphasized that for every dollar spent using SNAP benefits, participants receive an additional dollar to spend on Oregon-grown fruits and vegetables. This initiative not only reduces the cost of produce but also significantly benefits local economies. In 2024, the program facilitated $5.5 million in produce purchases, directly benefiting Oregon's small farmers and generating over $6 million in labor income.

Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the growing demand for the program and its potential. If fully utilized, the program could see redemptions reach $259 million, vastly exceeding its current scale. A letter from over 300 constituents, including farmers and community members, was presented, sharing personal stories and the program's impact on their lives.

Sarah Weber Ogden, Executive Director of Partners for Hunger Free Oregon, addressed the committee, highlighting the alarming rise in food insecurity affecting one in eight Oregonians. She noted that while federal emergency benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic were effective in curbing hunger, their expiration has led to a resurgence in food insecurity, particularly among vulnerable populations. Ogden urged the committee to fully fund self-sufficiency programs outlined in Senate Bill 5526 to ensure that all Oregonians have access to necessary support.

Chris Baker, a legislative strategist at Partners for Hunger Free Oregon, echoed Ogden's sentiments, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various hunger relief programs. He pointed out that initiatives like SNAP training and the Elderly Simplified Application Process are essential for helping individuals escape poverty and maintain dignity.

Melissa Brown, representing Kiva Grocery and Deli in Eugene, also voiced her support for the Double Up Food Bucks program. She shared statistics indicating that 68% of respondents in Lane County reported experiencing hunger, and noted that the program aids over 1,600 unique SNAP shoppers monthly at her store. Brown highlighted the program's role in attracting visitors to struggling downtown areas and urged for continued state investment to leverage federal matching dollars.

The meeting concluded with a call for comprehensive support for programs that address food insecurity, emphasizing the need for sustained funding to maximize their impact on Oregon communities. The committee's discussions reflect a growing recognition of the importance of food assistance programs in fostering economic resilience and community well-being.