Next week, the Massachusetts State Senate will convene for the final vote on crucial budget amendments, a decision point with profound implications for the future of our farms, food security, and the well-being of our communities.

We are calling on you to take immediate and decisive action to champion our regional food system by urging your State Senator to support the following critical budget amendments:

1. Support Amendment #469 - Secure the Future of the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)  

Urge your Senator to support Amendment #469, sponsored by Senator Bruce Tarr, which would permanently establish the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) into Massachusetts General Law. HIP provides vital support to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients by offering a dollar-for-dollar match, up to a specified monthly limit, when they purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers.

This program delivers a powerful dual benefit:  It empowers low-income community members to access and afford healthy, locally grown food while strengthening our local farming economy by driving direct sales to Massachusetts producers.

2. Support Amendment #625 - Invest in Food Literacy and Farm-to-School Initiatives -

Ask your Senators to vote in favor of Amendment #625, championed by Senator Jason Lewis, which encompasses two pivotal initiatives:

An Act to Promote Food Literacy: This forward-thinking legislation will expand food literacy education across K-12 schools in Massachusetts. By equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to make informed food choices, we can cultivate healthier communities and foster a more sustainable future. We're requesting full funding at the $250,000 level for the school wellness coaching program, a key component of this act.

The Farm-to-School FRESH Grant: This vital grant program empowers school systems and early childhood programs throughout the Commonwealth to procure local food. It also supports the development of essential infrastructure, such as commercial kitchens for preparing culturally relevant meals sourced from local farms and raised garden beds to provide hands-on learning opportunities for children about how to grow food and why eating healthy matters. We're advocating for full funding of $750,000 to maximize the reach and impact of this program.

Now is YOUR time to act!

Email your Senator today and ask them to support these amendments. Let them know that investing in a strong, equitable food system is not just a budgetary decision—it is a statement of values, resilience, and commitment to the well-being of every Massachusetts resident.

Together, we can ensure that our food system not only survives but thrives.

To Email your state Senator, fill out the short form on the right.

Thank you!

The Marion Institute's Southcoast Food Policy Council Team