Submitted By Ali Ghiorse
I am writing to express my full support for Representative Hector Arzeno’s re-election to the 151st District, based on his steadfast commitment to food security for all Greenwich students.
Since taking office in 2023, Representative Arzeno has consistently co-sponsored two critical policy investments that support student health and well-being: Farm to School and universal no-cost school meals (School Meals for All).
Amari Brantley, Ali Ghiorse and State Rep Hector Arzeno (D-151). Contributed photo
As an avid farmers’ market shopper, Representative Arzeno understands firsthand the value of local agriculture. Supporting small and medium-sized diversified farms re-invests state resources into Connecticut’s agricultural economy. Shorter supply chains improve food safety, reduce environmental impact and waste, and foster a deeper connection between residents andlocal farmers. Through his advocacy and voting record, Representative Arzeno has demonstrated his belief that every Greenwich student deserves equitable access to Connecticut-grown food, not just those with the time and resources to frequent a Greenwich market.
Why Farm to School?
Farm to School is a smart, responsible policy. Teaching students how to grow, prepare, and value nutritious, seasonal food empowers future leaders with essential life skills. As families
and educators witness the positive impacts of these programs, state and local governments nationwide are increasing support.
Thanks to Connecticut legislators like Representative Arzeno, our state has invested millions of dollars in Farm to School initiatives. These includeexpanding the CT Fresh Ed: Buy Local Program, which connects K–12 schools with local farmsto improve nutrition and offer agricultural education, and funding the CT Grown for CT Kids Grant program. Greenwich Public Schools benefit directly from both initiatives through local food procurement and New Lebanon School’s remarkable Farm to School initiative.
Why Universal No-Cost School Meals?
Connecticut currently faces the highest food insecurity rate in New England at about 16%. In Greenwich, food insecurity is often hidden, with an estimated 27% of residents living at or below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold. Universal school meals support families “caught in the middle” – those who earn too much to qualify for federal assistance, yet struggle to afford daily school meals. To qualify for federal free or reduced lunch, a family of four can earn no more than $55,000 annually. However, the Greenwich United Way 2025 Needs Assessment shows that a family of four needs an income of $131,000 to make ends meet.
Universal no-cost school meals ensure that every child receives warm, nutritious meals daily, giving financial relief to hardworking parents who do not qualify for federal aid. At a recent
Greenwich Foodshed Alliance discussion, we learned that Neighbor to Neighbor, Greenwich’s food pantry, experienced an unprecedented 14% increase in clients in the last year due to SNAP
cuts, rising food costs, and economic pressures. Community members shared moving stories of students accumulating lunch debt, a clear indicator that their families struggle with food security.
During the coming legislative session, advocates will continue pushing for universal school lunches, and the continuation of farm to school funding, both as vital safety nets. In these uncertain times with unpredictable federal actions, we must elect leaders with a proven record of expanding equitable food access. Representative Arzeno deeply understands the essential, interconnected role these policies play in student success and community prosperity.
Please join me in voting to re-elect Representative Hector Arzeno.