Marion Institute News
Southcoast Food Policy Council Food Summit
August 31, 2026
Join the Southcoast Food Policy Council for a virtual Food Summit on September 24 from 6:30–8:00 PM. Connect with community members, food system partners, and regional leaders for an important conversation about our local food system.
S.638/H.1000 Coastal Wastewater Infrastructure Financing Commission
August 28, 2026
S.638/H.1000 would establish a Coastal Wastewater Infrastructure Financing Commission to identify sustainable funding for critical wastewater improvements. Learn how this legislation could protect Buzzards Bay, strengthen the Southcoast’s aquaculture industry, and safeguard our regional food system.
The Farm Bill: Why SNAP Funding Matters
August 27, 2026
Proposed SNAP cuts and staffing shortages are making it harder for Massachusetts families to access food assistance while also impacting local farmers and food retailers. Learn what’s at stake and how you can advocate for stronger SNAP support.
August is National Make-a-Will Month
August 26, 2026
What do you want your legacy to be? National Make-A-Will Month is an opportunity to reflect on the people, places, and causes that matter most. Learn how including the Marion Institute in your estate plans can create lasting impact and welcome you into our Legacy Society.
Wildlands Trust, Volunteer at Frogfoot Farm to be a Citizen Science BioBlitz
August 17, 2026
Join Wildlands Trust for a hands-on BioBlitz at Frogfoot Farm! Explore the property's diverse plants and wildlife, learn how to use the iNaturalist app, and contribute valuable citizen science data that supports conservation efforts. No experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and enjoy a day of discovery alongside fellow nature enthusiasts.
Celebrating Two Years of Advocacy: A Legislative Session Worth Celebrating
August 17, 2026
Over the past two years, the Southcoast Food Policy Council helped turn community advocacy into legislative wins that strengthened food access, supported local farms, and advanced Massachusetts' food system.
August 2026 MI Newsletter
August 15, 2026
As we approach the end of our fiscal year on September 30, we’re reflecting on all we’ve accomplished together. Your support helps the Marion Institute reconnect food and community, strengthen our regional food system, and create lasting change across Southeastern Massachusetts.
HIP is Expanding! Here’s How Massachusetts Farmers Can Become HIP Vendors
July 28, 2026
Massachusetts farmers can begin preparing now for HIP enrollment. This guide walks you through SNAP authorization, EBT setup, and the steps to becoming a Healthy Incentives Program vendor.
From Farm Cooler to Family Table: How 370 Pounds of Cucumbers Helped Feed Our Community
July 22, 2026
A bumper crop of cucumbers became an opportunity to strengthen our local food system. Through a new partnership with Under the Sun Farm, Fields to Families rescued more than 370 pounds of fresh cucumbers and delivered them—alongside locally harvested squash, zucchini, and raspberries—to Angels Anonymous in Fall River, helping provide fresh, nutritious food to neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
July 2026 MI Newsletter
July 15, 2026
July brought exciting momentum across the Marion Institute. From a $25,000 matching challenge for Frogfoot Farm to new opportunities to join our team, see how our community is growing food, expanding access, fostering learning, and strengthening connections across Southeastern Massachusetts.















