Food

Maine farmers, food banks and rural economies could be harmed by a 20-30% cut to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program known as SNAP under a bill being considered by Congress.

Local farmer’s markets may help, according to food policy advocates.

For food banks and people who go to them, the economic uncertainty represents a small part of the larger anxiety about ongoing moves on the federal level.

Salvation Farms is among the 37 nonprofits, schools, health centers and municipalities — plus the Passamaquoddy Tribe — awarded $24 million in federal funds by the Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) last month.

The Health Incentives Program (HIP) now only offers $20 per family, compared to $40-to-$80 previously. Farmers and advocates say, without restored funding, they will have to reduce winter market options.

Behind each of Granny’s pies is a team of immigrant bakers helping to fulfill family traditions.

The art installation incorporates healing with memories of home for a community-based art group of migrant women

"On the surface it looks like we're just giving away free veggies," said Nour El-Naboulsi. "But we are bringing our community members into a solidarity fold."

Since 2020, the state-run Venison for Vermonters program has donated more than 3,000 pounds of wild game meat to local food shelves and Vermonters in need.

Gather55 is a pay-what-you-can restaurant in Hartford that serves the city’s working poor with healthy, hearty meals at a reduced price or in exchange for volunteer work.