Vermont Lights the Way

Governor Phil Scott is encouraging families and businesses to help show Vermont Lights the Way, an effort to literally brighten communities and neighborhoods around the state by decorating homes, businesses, trees or other creative ideas to help celebrate the holidays during the pandemic.

“I know how hard this pandemic has been, especially as we make our way through the holidays without the ‘normal’ get-togethers and sense of closeness we all want,” said Governor Scott. “So, in celebration of the coming holiday season, I think it’s time to lift our spirits. Let’s get creative and show the world that Vermonters are here for each other and that even through these dark and difficult times, Vermont Lights the Way.”

In addition to decorating, Vermonters should share pictures of their displays - or favorites from around the community - on social media using the hashtag #VTLightsTheWay. This will allow those who are not able to tour the lights to take part in the holiday celebration.

Spread Your Light

FSMA Compliance Resource

The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) has resulted in a sweeping overhaul of federal food regulation in recent years. A new website from Vermont Law School and the University of Vermont acts as a free legal resource for farmers, food producers, and technical service providers seeking assistance in navigating new FSMA related regulations. This includes changes to Produce Safety and Preventative Controls Rules.

Northern VT Recovery Loans

The Vermont Community Loan Fund has launched the Northern Vermont Recovery Loan Fund (NVRLF), serving agricultural and other businesses and organizations impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Business owners from Vermont’s six northernmost counties: Caledonia, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille and Orleans are eligible. Loans include flexible terms and low- to no-cost debt financing, along with business coaching services and support.

Healthcare Enrollment Support

The Open Enrollment period for Vermont Health Connect is 11/1-12/15. Rural Vermont is partnering with Vermont Legal Aid to offer farmer-specific healthcare enrollment support. Unclear about whether you will be eligible for Medicaid, or forced to keep your farm income low so you can remain eligible for Medicaid? Does income variability on your farm make choosing the right plan difficult? Learn more at this free online event.

Tuesday December 1st from 12-1pm.

Winter Farmers Markets

Just because it's getting colder doesn't mean you can't visit a local farmers market to get fresh Vermont grown and made products. Vermont has numerous winter farmers markets throughout the state that offer great local products all season long. Avoid the crowded grocery stores and the people hoarding toilet paper. Find a winter market near you and load up on high-quality local products. Be sure to check market websites for updates related to COVID-19.

For agricultural producers who continue to face market disruptions and associated costs because of COVID-19, USDA is offering a second round of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. The deadline to apply is December 11.

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Vermont Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets
116 State St. Montpelier, VT 05620

Our website address is:
https://agriculture.vermont.gov

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