Talk of the Towns 3/9/12

Host: Ron Beard, University of Maine Cooperative Extension Engineer: Amy Browne Issue: Community concerns and opportunities for citizen involvement Broadcast Time: 10- 11 AM Program Topic: Food Security and Food Pantries Key Discussion Points (list at least 3): · How are you framing the question of food security (and difference from hunger)? · What is the extent of food insecurity in this part of Maine? How does Maine compare to the nation or region? · What factors lead or contribute to food insecurity / hunger in eastern Maine? · How are communities, agencies and organizations responding? · What are ways for addressing the issue in the short run? · What are the longer term, structural solutions and policies needed to address food security? · Where do local food pantries fit into the spectrum of short and longer run solutions? · How are food pantries organized and supported in this part of Maine? · What trends insure food pantry food provides needed calories but is also healthful? Marjorie’s interview covered the basics of the food drive: What led to the creation of this particular food drive? What is different about this food drive (incentive for matching cash donations)? How is the drive organized to achieve its goal of 10,000 plus items? How do listeners get involved? Beyond the food drive, how is Extension helping address food security? (education on growing, preparing and preserving food, support for food pantries, encouragement for Master Gardeners and others inMaine Harvest for Hunger) Contact info for listeners wanting to learn more, get involved Beyond success in this and other food drives, what are your hopes for how we address the issue of food security as a community and as a nation? Guests by name and affiliation: A) Sara Yasner, United Way of Eastern Maine B) Susan Farley, Washington-Hancock Community Agency C) Jim Tintle, Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry D) Marjorie Peronto, University of Maine Cooperative Extension (in pre-recorded interview) Call In Program: Yes Political Broadcast: No The post Talk of the Towns 3/9/12 first appeared on WERU 89.9 FM Blue Hill, Maine Local News and Public Affairs Archives.