Thank you to Emily Landenberger of the Addison County Food Security Network for sharing the following information regarding 3SquaresVT Benefits and the November delay.
Hunger Free Vermont is working tirelessly to keep us updated on developments related to 3SquaresVT funding and has created a flyer and social media post that we can share on Facebook and Instagram to help keep clear, accurate, and timely information flowing.
They’ve also launched a webpage with the most up-to-date information and resources related to food security during the government shutdown.
Because benefits will be delayed until November 7th, there’s growing concern about how to support community members during the first week of the month. Our local food shelves are likely to see a significant increase in traffic next week. We can help by encouraging monetary donations (provide food shelves with the most flexibility to meet a range of needs) or non-perishable food donations when financial support isn’t possible.
HOPE's most needed items include:
- Fruit Juice
- Kidney Beans
- Baking Mixes
- Granola Bars
- Dish Soap
- Laundry Detergent
- Hearty Canned Soups
- Cereals
- Sugar
- Tampons
- Diapers, sizes 4, 5, 6
- Shampoo
CVOEO's most needed items include:
- Laundry detergent
- Dish soap
- Shampoo
- Toothpaste
- Diapers
- Sugar
- Flour
- Soups
- Baking Mixes
- Juice
- Snacks
- Canned vegetables
We also recognize that several other food pantries and distribution efforts are happening across the county beyond HOPE and CVOEO, and they are experiencing increased need at this time. Here is a full list from our partners at ACORN. When folks ask how they can help, please consider steering them to donate resources to these vital organizations as well.
Given the delay in state-supported SNAP funding being available on EBT cards to support vulnerable Vermonters during this challenging time, NOFA-VT is ensuring that Crop Cash PLUS remains available at farmers' markets. During the month of November, customers who need help buying food can receive $20 in Crop Cash PLUS to spend on any eligible food item at the farmers market. Shoppers can do this every time they visit a market that participates in Crop Cash and Crop Cash PLUS in November. Find a list of participating winter farmers markets at the bottom of the page at nofavt.org/cropcash.
If customers still have funds on their EBT card, they can continue spending them at the market, and the regular Crop Cash match will apply. Any SNAP participant can also continue to spend any SNAP tokens, Crop Cash coupons, or Crop Cash PLUS coupons that they have from earlier in the year. Questions? Contact johanna@nofavt.org.
