Montpelier’s Food Access Partnership Is Going Strong
Things were already stressful in October 2025, and then federal SNAP food support was ended for some immigrants and refugees in our community. CVRAN was able to set up an interim reimbursement program to replace some of the food dollars lost almost immediately, but it was a temporary measure to assist families until they could identify other options.
Executive Director Ali Zenie reached out to Just Basics Inc (JBI, aka the Montpelier Food Pantry) as a local non-profit with experience helping those who are food insecure. That conversation resulted in the creation of the CVRAN’s Refugee Food Access Program partnership, which provides a box of culturally appropriate foods to participants each week.
Financial support of the Refugee Food Access Program started with CVRAN and a single very generous donor who wants to reduce food insecurity here in central Vermont. Our partners at JBI and Hunger Mountain Coop made it a reality. Now the Northfield Savings Bank Community Giving Fund is helping us continue the effort. Thanks to all of you for supporting neighbors in need!
Through the Hunger Mountain Coop, food is purchased at cost. Each week, boxes of flour, rice, beans, and halal chicken thighs are assembled at JBI. Other items that have been purchased and offered include cooking oil, canned tomatoes, and halal chicken breasts. JBI may also provide items that it has in abundance at the time like yogurt or onions.
Participating households pick up the boxes at the food pantry. As of January, the third month of the program, between 10 and 15 households have been picking up boxes each week. A total of 60 boxes were picked up in January. The program is going strong in 2026 and CVRAN is encouraging more households to sign up.
We are actively looking for funding to support the Refugee Food Assistance Program. Our very successful Fall Fundraiser has been a big help, however, if you know of grants, businesses or other entities who might help, please email us at cvran910@gmail.com.
You can also donate directly on our donation page.