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I am a farmer in Waldo County. I work on a small organic vegetable farm and am working to establish my own small farm as well. It sounds obvious, but I got into farming to feed people. Although it can be exhausting, I love working at farmers’ markets because I love introducing people to their new favorite foods.
Through organizations like the Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets, SNAP benefits not only can be used at farmers’ markets, CSAs, and farm stands, but are doubled when buying produce and seedlings. Not only does this help low-income Mainers access fresh, healthy food, but it also increases revenue for small farms.
The budget reconciliation bill that is currently before the Senate threatens to cut SNAP funding by more than a third. Not only would this take nutritious food off the tables of low-income families and seniors, but it would also have reverberating impacts for farmers, local grocery stores, and other small businesses that rely on those customers.
If you’ve shopped at a farmers’ market lately, I urge you to contact Sen. Susan Collins and Sen. Angus King and ask them to vote against this budget bill.
Matt Hikida
Searsmont
