Advocacy

The NH Food Bank advocates for policies and programs that assist those experiencing food insecurity.

Food distribution is not the sole solution; the New Hampshire Food Bank (NHFB) is proud to work with neighbors, coalitions, and elected officials to promote public policy that allows our neighbors access to the food they need to thrive.

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By the Numbers

1 in 9

Granite Staters face food insecurity

1 in 6

NH children face food insecurity

Join the NHFB’s fight against food insecurity through our nonpartisan advocacy network

    Policy Priorities

    • Federal

      • Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program: The New Hampshire Food Bank advocates for protecting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a vital program for those experiencing food insecurity. Yet, less than a third of eligible Granite Staters are enrolled. Through our SNAP application assistance and outreach program, we aim to increase enrollment and public understanding of the program’s importance.
      • The Emergency Food Access Program: As food insecurity continues to rise across our state, the New Hampshire Food Bank advocates for increasing TEFAP funding for our neighbors’ access to nutritional food.
        • Through TEFAP, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) purchases food from American farmers and distributes it to food banks and pantries across the county.
        • The New Hampshire Food Bank approves of the Senate’s proposal to increase TEFAP funding through the amended Farm Bill.
    • State

      • SNAP Study Commission: The New Hampshire Food Bank is grateful to be included in the Senate SNAP Study Commission, which was established by SB615 to, “study the use and regulation of SNAP in New Hampshire.”
      • School Meal Assistance Programs: The New Hampshire Food Bank advocates for increasing application assistance and student enrollment in free or reduced school meals.
        • According to Feeding America’s 2026 Map the Meal Gap Report, 1 in 6 children in New Hampshire experience food insecurity. Free or reduced meals alleviate hunger among our youngest neighbors.

    Let us hear from you!

    NHFB Advocacy includes sharing stories of food insecurity with our neighbors and elected officials, highlighting how hunger affects their community. If you know of someone who is comfortable sharing their story, please have them complete this form.

    Contact Us!

    Marion Harris joined the New Hampshire Food Bank in August of 2026 as the Advocacy & Government Relations Specialist. Through this role, she advocates for effective public policy that ensures our neighbors access to the food they need to thrive. From grass roots to grass tops, she engages with neighbors, coalitions, and elected officials to increase public understanding of food insecurity and the relationship between food assistance programs through data-driven story telling.

    Do you or your organization, club, or council want to learn more about how food insecurity affects your community? Contact Marion to schedule a presentation or meeting at marion.harris@nhfoodbank.org or at 603-943-1247