Southcoast Food Policy Council News

There are a great deal of programs in the MA state budget. State agencies and other organizations manage these programs, which are critical to supporting the entire food system in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Here is the list we have identified as priorities for the SFPC...

Marion Institute's February 2025 Newsletter featuring upcoming events, happenings, and program announcements.

Marion Institute's January 2025 Newsletter featuring upcoming events, happenings, and program announcements.

SD.1813 An Act establishing basic needs assistance for Massachusetts immigrant residents will restore essential food assistance using the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to lawfully present immigrants. This bill will provide families with minor children, older people, and immigrants with disabilities access to essential nutrition.

HD.2703 / SD.1015 An Act promoting equity in agriculture will establish a commission to research barriers to agriculture and make recommendations to the MA Department of Agricultural Resources to better support farmers from socially disadvantaged groups entering into agriculture as a profession.

SD.841 / HD.1043 An Act Establishing Farm to School Program will ensure schools have the infrastructure and funding to provide fresh, local food is essential for student health and education. The Farm-to-School FRESH grant in Massachusetts helps schools purchase local food, build commercial kitchens, and create garden spaces for hands-on learning.

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.