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I'd like to first and foremost say thanks to TOL for having this discussion.  I'm not a regular TOL listener, but I heard this come on after the news this morning and stayed tuned.  It's an important issue and doesn't get talked about enough in a comprehensive and constructive way (clearly, I disagree with scottmil's comment).

My own connection to this issue is strong.  I am an AmeriCorps volunteer in a statewide program with about 20 other volunteers working in rural communities.  Most of us work on economic development and several of us are working on food security issues: one volunteer works with the Ontario Regional Food Bank mentioned in a previous comment, another is working on starting a farmers' market in his small town, and several of us have enough personal interest in food security that we are involved in local Community Supported Agriculture farms.

The grand irony: AmeriCorps volunteers are paid a small living stipend and are therefore encouraged to apply for food stamps.

In other words, we know whereof we speak on the issue of food security and I'm very appreciative to hear others speaking about the issue as well.  Good job TOL.

posted 4 years ago
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