Southcoast Food Policy Council News

HD.2100 / SD.1235 An Act to promote food literacy will support the Department of Secondary and Elementary (DESE) schools to create food literacy standards for students to learn about topics such as nutrition, food production, the connection between the environment and the food system, develop culinary skills, and learn about careers in the food system.

HD.403 / SD.834 An Act encouraging the donation of food to persons in need will provide a $25,000 tax credit to Massachusetts farmers and food businesses that donate food to food pantries. This would reduce food waste, mitigate climate impacts, and provide much-needed nutrient-dense food to individuals and families in the Commonwealth struggling with food insecurity.

The Healthy Incentives Program, or HIP, provides a SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipient $40, $60, or $80 additional dollars (depending on household size) to buy vegetables and fruit ONLY from local MA farmers, farm stands, Farmer’s Market, or CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture).

Some municipal Departments of Health require permits, including a fee, and inspections of the kitchens, while others do not. There is no consistency from town to town and, therefore, no equity in the current system. This bill would allow all farmers and home cooks throughout Massachusetts to sell low-risk, non-temperature foods without requiring a health department permit.

PRESS RELEASE: Marion Institute's BioMed Program Launches it's 3rd Annual 2025 21-Day Reset

Marion Institute's December 2024 Newsletter featuring upcoming events, happenings, and program announcements.

Marion Institute's November 2024 Newsletter featuring upcoming events, happenings, and program announcements.

The new year is the perfect time to reset. To make it easy, we’ll send you daily emails with simple tips to improve your health and boost your immune system. Join us for our Third Annual 21-Day Reset, where we’ll guide you through daily habits that support your well-being and align with the "Natural Laws to Live By."