Karen Paul
Democratic Candidate for Vermont House of Representatives in the Chittenden-13 District
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 state has a fundamental role to play in working to support and ensure there are economic and social conditions where food insecurity cannot take root. We must devote the time and effort to ensuring economic conditions where people can afford the food they need. This means shaping policy to promote people keeping more of what they make, access to housing and childcare and healthcare, systems that support Vermonters and their families. We also need to support nutrition programs at all stages of life by making them accessible and doing what we can to develop coordinated strategies.
What would be your policy priorities to move Vermont toward food security for all?
This is a tough question to answer as I know there is plenty of work to be done. During COVID, I worked to organize food pick-ups and hundreds of people attended. The need is great. I very much support Universal School Meals program but there are others that I would like to explore.
What do you believe are the root causes of hunger, and what should the state do to address those underlying factors?
The root causes of hunger center around one core issue - people need economic security to consistently and reliably be able to afford food. While every basic need must be addressed, from shelter to medical care to food, when faced with scarce resources, low income Vermonters are seven times more likely to be food insecure than those with resources. The state could invest in programs that, together with partners, would enhance local agriculture, home gardening, community efforts and greater emphasis on quality food in schools and year round meals for all children.
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?
Truly, Vermont’s farmers are essential to our economy, our environment, and our communities. Farming must be viable for the long term—by improving land access through grants and technical assistance the state can champion, building climate resilience, strengthening markets such as the Food Hub Collaborative, and supporting new farmers with training and other assistance. I will work with others to promote these priorities.