When an injury left Emma out of work without medical leave, she needed help affording groceries—so she got in touch with Vermont Foodbank. Now, Emma’s giving back and sharing her experience to make sure people are aware that food help is available when someone needs it.
Summer in Vermont lends itself to Emma’s favorite pastimes: walking her dog, being outdoors, kayaking, and spending time with friends and family. “I love a good barbecue with local meat and fresh, seasonal vegetables,” shares Emma.
Emma, 35, lives in Moretown and works as a licensed acupuncturist. Last year, she suffered a serious knee injury that required surgery.
“I was unable to work for six weeks. Because I was employed by a small business, I did not have access to paid medical leave. This created significant financial stress, including difficulty affording food during nearly two months without income,” Emma explains.
Tradeoffs like these are all too familiar, as the high cost of living outpaces wages in Vermont. And it’s becoming more difficult for many of us to afford basic needs like food, health care, and housing. Fortunately, thanks to donors like you, Vermont Foodbank is here to help people navigate these challenges.
“When I was navigating my upcoming surgery and finances, a friend encouraged me to apply for food assistance,” says Emma. So, she got in touch with the Foodbank and connected with Ari. Ari is part of the dedicated team that works statewide to offer one-on-one assistance with the 3SquaresVT application process. Also known as SNAP, or “food stamps,” 3SquaresVT is a federally funded program that provides money for income-eligible people to purchase groceries.
“My biggest takeaway is to reach out and ask questions,” says Emma. “I had no idea I could receive temporary assistance …. Without the support of Ari on the Vermont Foodbank’s 3SquaresVT team, I would not have been able to afford groceries while I was out of work. Their guidance and support were invaluable during a very stressful time.”
Your support for services like 3SquaresVT outreach has helped countless individuals and families access food resources and budget support.
For Emma, 3SquaresVT benefits made it possible to purchase the foods she prefers and enjoys. “Without this assistance, it would have been very challenging to buy the healthy foods I needed to support my recovery,” she says. “Receiving food assistance while I was recovering from surgery and unable to work is something I will always be grateful for. It was incredibly helpful and allowed me to focus on healing and nourishing my body.”
Food assistance means more than just calories on a plate. It’s holistic nourishment for mind, body, and even heart. It enables connection, like enjoying that summer barbecue with your loved ones.
Today, Emma’s sharing her experience so that people throughout Vermont know that food help is there if they need it. “I am so glad I can give back by sharing my story,” she says. “I hope to raise awareness for others who may not realize they are eligible for support during challenging times … I didn’t think I would qualify, but that support during my time out of work was invaluable.”
Emma says high grocery prices and other living costs have added another layer of financial stress for many people she cares about. Personally, she’s finding it harder to consistently afford to eat the way she wants to—prioritizing fresh, organic fruits and vegetables.
“It’s important to recognize that these programs exist to support people during times of need. Food insecurity can happen to anyone, especially during unexpected life events, and these resources can make a meaningful difference.”
* Photo and name substituted to protect privacy. If you’re interested in sharing your story, please consider connecting with us.
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