Food Talk with Dani Nierenberg (by Food Tank)

527. Reps. Nikki Budzinski and Shontel Brown on Fair Food Policy, Perseverance, and Putting People First

Oct 30, 2025
In a compelling discussion, U.S. Representatives Nikki Budzinski and Shontel Brown delve into the urgent need for fair food policy. Budzinski highlights the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities Act and its potential to connect farmers with food pantries while addressing the rising demand for food assistance. Brown shares her personal experiences with SNAP, emphasizing its critical role for families and advocating for bipartisan solutions to combat food insecurity. Both leaders stress the importance of sharing stories and supporting local agriculture in these tumultuous times.
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ADVICE

Reconnect Farmers To Food Pantries

  • Reintroduce local food purchasing grants to link farmers with food pantries and restore fresh produce in food banks.
  • Fund market-rate reimbursements so growers can afford to supply nutritious options to community pantries.
INSIGHT

Rising Need Meets Growers' Willingness

  • Food bank demand has risen since COVID while grocery prices climbed about 29% since 2020.
  • Growers want to supply those in need but need federal support to make producing for food banks feasible.
INSIGHT

Hunger Is Not A Partisan Issue

  • Hunger and access to healthy food transcend party lines and can be bipartisan priorities in the Agriculture Committee.
  • Restoring trust across parties is essential to pass nutrition-focused farm bill provisions.
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