Massachusetts is taking an important step toward a more food-secure future! The Merrimack Valley Food Bank is grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the Massachusetts Legislature for approving a FY26 state budget that strengthens support for hunger relief. This critical investment will help more individuals and families across the Commonwealth access the nutritious food they need to live healthy, stable lives.

• $180 million for School Meals
  Ensures every student in Massachusetts can receive free, nutritious school meals so they can learn and thrive without the barrier of hunger.

• $49.5 million for the Massachusetts Emergency Food Assistance Program (MEFAP)
  Strengthens the statewide emergency food system, providing essential funding for food banks—including partners like MVFB—and the agencies we support.

• $20 million for the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)
  Helps SNAP households access more fresh, local produce at farmers markets and farm stands.

• $15.5 million to support the WIC Program
  Enhances nutrition access for women, infants, and young children, promoting healthy starts in life.

• $500,000 for the Hunger-Free Campus Initiative
  Expands resources for college students experiencing food insecurity across campuses statewide.

• Additional funding for local anti-hunger efforts
  Gives communities the ability to create and strengthen solutions that address their specific needs.