To the Editor:

Right now, federal policy shifts and funding cuts are having a real and devastating impact on food access in our community. At The Salem Pantry, we’re already seeing the effects, and they are alarming.

Grants we and other food assistance groups relied on have been eliminated. A program supporting local farms to bring fresh produce to our pantry has been slashed. School meal funding is shrinking, USDA food trucks to Massachusetts are being canceled, and new tariffs are expected to drive up food costs.

Meanwhile, proposed cuts to SNAP and Medicaid could reduce vital support for families, seniors, and individuals already struggling to afford groceries. This is not a future problem. We are facing it now.

The Salem Pantry provides food to over 31,000 people each year and supports more than 20 fellow food access organizations. But without reliable resources, that work is at risk.

Still, there is hope. Local action can counter federal inaction.

This is a call to our community. If you want to help during uncertain times, start with your local food pantry. Your donation, your time, or your voice can make a difference and help ensure students, seniors, and families continue to access the food they need.

We believe healthy food is a basic right. Let us protect that right together.

Sincerely,

Robyn Burns

Executive Director 

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Shared in the Salem News: https://www.salemnews.com/opinion/letter-our-food-safety-net-is-unraveling-but-we-can-do-something-about-it/article_4626f094-fa19-4cd0-85c2-9637928be289.html

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