Vermont Legislature formalizes Vermonters Feeding Vermonters grant program

The Senate Agriculture Committee convened on May 6, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding food security initiatives in Vermont. The primary focus of the meeting was a proposed bill aimed at formalizing the "Vermonters Feeding Vermonters" program, which has been administered by the Vermont Food Bank since 2018.

The bill seeks to establish a grant program within the Agency of Agriculture, allowing for ongoing financial support to the food bank. This initiative is designed to address food insecurity, which has seen a decrease in recent years following the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee highlighted that increased access to local produce not only improves health outcomes but also stimulates the local economy, with every dollar spent on local food generating an additional 60 cents in economic activity.

Key provisions of the bill include the definition of "local food," which must be grown, produced, or processed in Vermont. The program will enable the food bank to purchase local food directly from Vermont farms and provide subgrants to network partners, allowing them to buy from farms of all sizes. This approach aims to ensure a diverse range of agricultural commodities and culturally preferred foods are available to those in need.

The food bank will be required to report on the program's implementation by March 1, detailing the total amount of food purchased, the number of farms involved, and the distribution sites. Additionally, a confidentiality provision will protect the identities of individuals and businesses receiving assistance, encouraging participation without fear of disclosure.

The committee discussed the necessity of securing funding for the program, with a proposed allocation of $500,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, pending the approval of appropriations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of formalizing support for the "Vermonters Feeding Vermonters" program, ensuring that ongoing assistance is available to combat food insecurity and bolster the local agricultural economy. The committee's discussions reflect a commitment to enhancing food access and supporting Vermont's farmers.