CT SB00785

Establishes the Office of the Food Access Advocate within the state's executive branch to coordinate efforts addressing food insecurity.

Office shall coordinate outreach for food insecurity programs, develop new initiatives and campaigns, and identify best practices to increase enrollment in state food programs.

Office shall provide support to the 2-1-1 Infoline program, a twenty-four hour toll-free hunger hotline, to increase availability of information about state food insecurity programs.

Office shall create and monitor a census of food insecurity on a town-by-town basis, support grant applications for in-state providers and state departments, and establish best practices for food banks to reduce waste and distribute more fresh produce and proteins.

Office shall coordinate communication between food banks, food rescue organizations, nonprofits, supermarkets, and donation facilitation groups, and collaborate with research organizations and universities to identify underserved areas.