Ann Cummings

What do you believe is the role of state government, if any, in ensuring that everyone living in Vermont has the food they need to thrive?

The States prime responsibility is ensure that every citizen has the food, shelter medical care and income they need to thrive

What would be your policy priorities to move Vermont toward food security for all?

I have a long record of supporting programs such as the ones you mention. I have personally fought efforts to end universal school meals and was instrumental in ensuring that every family received full 4 Square payments during the.federal cut backs. As the federal government cuts back on food supports it will be more important than ever that the state ensure that no one goes without the food they need

What do you believe are the root causes of hunger, and what should the state do to address those underlying factors?

That is a complex question. Unfortunately, many of the causes of the problem are beyond Vermont’s control. However, there are things we can do. We can't control the price of food, but we can work with our farmers to increase the supply of healthy affordable food to our citizens. We cant control the housing market, but we.can make it easier to build housing a d subsidize the cost of building. We must increase our housing stock, get property taxes and health care costs under control , increase the supp.y of jobs and provide mental health and substance abuse treatment

How would you help strengthen the state’s agriculture and food economy to ensure Vermont farms can continue to grow the food we all need?

First, we need to listen to farmers. My daughter worked for UVM Extension. I learned from her experience that farmers are struggling to make ends meet while complying with environmental requirements, labor shortages and rising costs. I dont know the solution, but I know we need to work with our farms to help them find their way in this new world.