I’m happy to share that our winter edition of Kernels is now available. Also known as our Gratitude Edition, this issue focuses on community impact in 2025 and includes our annual financial report.
In this issue, you’ll read highlights of how your Foodbank is one key part of a complex support ecosystem including: our network of food distribution partners; advocates who raise our collective voice; volunteers, food, and fund donors like you; and, of course, the neighbors seeking food security who are at the center of all we do.
I have deep gratitude for what we’ve accomplished together this year, and great hope for continued progress, with your support. All these helping hands remind me, every day, of the good in our world. Vermont Foodbank continues to play our role, distributing 14.2 million pounds of food last year and reaching an estimated 70,000 Vermont neighbors every month.
We’ve also restructured programs to enhance our resiliency and that of our partners, and to be responsive to the current needs of neighbors across Vermont. We’ve invested in food distribution and support for our network, phased out Community Kitchen Academy and VT Fresh programs, and carefully handed off Gleaning to partners that will continue that work. I’m grateful for the joy those efforts brought to many people over the years, and to all the participants and volunteers at the heart of those programs.
It is increasingly difficult to forecast what is in store. Yet looking back, I can see how the whole community support ecosystem responds, staying upright in the face of any headwinds. We make a plan and move forward together, with integrity.
Thank you for standing with us.
John Sayles, CEO
P.S. If you have a story to share or an idea that you’d like us to consider writing about in a future edition, please let us know!
Starting March 1st, some Vermont neighbors could lose 3SquaresVT food benefits unless they report information to VT-Economic Services Division (VT-ESD) about work, volunteer hours, or certain life situations that excuse them from work requirements. Contact our team for free, one-on-one assistance.
Together with community advocates and partners, we are helping legislators in the State House understand why 3SquaresVT and food security programs are important to achieve food access and security in Vermont.
February 5th, 2026 is 3SquaresVT Awareness Day! Join us virtually as we celebrate, educate, and share the ways this critical program supports people, farms, and businesses across Vermont.
