| |  | Farm to Family Coupons Available Beginning July 1 Farm to Family Coupons will be available beginning July 1 to help eligible Vermonters purchase fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs while supporting local farmers. Eligible households may receive $30 in coupons, and eligible adults age 60 and older may receive $48. Coupons are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last, so early application is encouraged. To learn about eligibility, participating farmers markets, and where to pick up coupons, visit the DCF website. | | | |  | Stay Safe Around Vermont Waters This Summer The VT Dept. of Health is asking for help in ensuring that Vermonters are safe swimming this summer. Before swimming in Vermont's lakes and ponds this summer, VDH suggests checking for cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms. These blooms can appear as green or blue-green scum or streaks on the water's surface, sometimes resembling pea soup or spilled paint, and may cause skin irritation, stomach illness, and other health problems. If a bloom is present, avoid contact with the water, rinse thoroughly after any exposure, and keep pets and livestock away, as they are especially vulnerable. Anyone experiencing symptoms after possible exposure should contact a health care provider. Possible blooms can be reported to a local beach manager, Town Health Officer, or through Vermont's cyanobacteria tracker. Because conditions can change quickly, recognizing the signs of a bloom is one of the best ways to help keep everyone safe while enjoying Vermont's waterways this summer. Can you spot the cyanobacteria? It's Number 3! | | | |  | Early Voting for Vermont's Primary Election Has Begun Early voting is now underway for Vermont's 2026 Primary Election. Ballots can be cast through August 11, giving voters the flexibility to vote before Election Day. The Primary Election will take place on Tuesday, August 11. For more information, visit the Vermont Secretary of State website. | | | |  | LIVELY Leadership Institute Series Registration is now open for the LIVELY Leadership Institute Series, a four-part professional development program designed for leaders looking to strengthen reflective supervision practices and build effective leadership systems. Hosted by VTAEYC, the series explores practical strategies for creating meaningful relationships, fostering staff growth, and developing sustainable systems that support long-term success. Sessions will be held from 6:00 to 7:00 pm on August 18, August 25, September 1, and September 8. For more information and to register, visit the VTAEYC website. | | | | | |  | | | | | The Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance is a statewide coalition formed in 2000 of early childhood professionals, parents, organizations, businesses, and strategic partners committed to improving public policies that impact young children between birth and age eight in the areas of health, safety, food security, economic security, and early childhood education. The Alliance crafts an annual Legislative Agenda in partnership with early childhood organizations, provides year-round advocacy support, and facilitates meaningful interactions with policymakers at key times during the decision making process. | | | | 7 School Street | Montpelier , Vermont 05602 vecaa.org The Vermont Early Childhood Advocacy Alliance is a program of the Vermont Community Loan Fund. | | | | | | | | | |
