Connections: Discussing the impact of an overhaul of the SNAP program

The author of a new book about food insecurity says food banks and food pantries were never meant to be permanent parts of our country. Andrew Fisher is a food security expert. He says food banks have become big business, and their ties to corporate America actually build on the underlying systemic issues that cause hunger.

He joins us to discuss how he thinks anti-hunger programs need to change. We also discuss the concept of the social purpose grocery, and how our community is addressing the root causes of hunger. In studio:

• Andrew Fisher, author of Big Hunger
• Daniel Bernhard, president of Mushroom Cloud
• George Carothers, research and engagement at Mushroom Cloud
• Mitch Gruber, chief program officer for Foodlink and member of Rochester City Council
  

President Trump wants to reduce funding for food stamp programs and change the way the SNAP program works. Critics have called it the "Blue Apron of food stamps," arguing that people in poverty deserve choice, and can't always accommodate specific food preparation needs. The White House, and Republicans in Congress like Tom Reed, point to the need to crack down on fraud and waste.

We explore his proposal and hear from people in the food access movement. Our guests:

• Mitch Gruber, chief program officer for Foodlink, and member of Rochester City Council
• Florence Clemmons, managers of the Curbside Market
• Mark Dwyer, communications manager at Foodlink