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A recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicates that 13.5% of households in the United States face food insecurity, with rural areas experiencing an even higher rate at 15%. In Vermont, rising grocery prices and uncertainty over federal feeding programs have contributed to about 12% of residents aged 60 and older being at risk of hunger.
In response to these challenges, a church congregation in a rural Vermont village has focused on providing consistent access to healthy food for local residents. The Congregational Church of Rupert, led by Rev. Dr. Steven E. Berry—who is both a former Vermont legislator and an ordained United Church of Christ pastor—has initiated programs such as free brown bag lunches as part of a broader effort to support community health.
UCC news reporter Donna Jackson spoke with Rev. Berry about the church’s mission and its commitment to sustaining the well-being of its neighbors throughout the year.
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