In the wake of severe flooding that struck Vermont last month, the state’s cannabis industry is coming together to support fellow business owners who suffered devastating losses. However, due to federal cannabis criminalization, these cannabis companies are ineligible for federal disaster aid, making it crucial for the community to step in and lend a helping hand.
Led by the Cannabis Retailers Association of Vermont, the industry has launched a heartfelt fundraising program named “A Higher Calling.” The initiative aims to raise much-needed funds for those impacted by the floods, offering an opportunity for compassionate individuals to contribute and make a difference. For every donation, contributors will receive a pre-rolled joint, crafted with donated cannabis flower, as a token of gratitude for their support.
The centerpiece of this philanthropic endeavor will be a two-day fundraising music festival scheduled to take place in Cabot next month. Half of the proceeds from this spirited event will be directly channeled towards cannabis recovery efforts, ensuring that every dollar raised goes to those in need.
Todd Baily, the president of the Cannabis Retailers Association of Vermont, emphasized the magnitude of the flooding’s impact on the cannabis industry. Over three dozen cannabis businesses in the state bore the brunt of the disaster, resulting in losses amounting to tens of millions of dollars. This calamity has been particularly distressing for cultivators, with an estimated 20,000 square feet of canopy lost.
Adding to their woes, many cannabis businesses in Vermont are still in the early stages of development, grappling with the challenges of being small startups. The combination of flood-induced losses and the ongoing startup phase has placed a significant burden on these entrepreneurs, warranting the community’s collective support.
Through “A Higher Calling,” the Cannabis Retailers Association of Vermont is determined to provide relief and support to every cannabis business affected by the floods. All impacted businesses are encouraged to apply for funds, with the association pledging to assist as many as possible. Together, they aim to foster a spirit of camaraderie and resilience within the industry, demonstrating the strength of unity in times of adversity.
The response to this initiative has been overwhelming, with individuals and businesses alike rallying behind their fellow community members. The outpouring of support underscores the spirit of compassion and solidarity that defines Vermont’s cannabis industry.
As the legal cannabis market in Vermont continues to grow and evolve, it is essential for the community to stand united and uplift one another. The “A Higher Calling” fundraising program serves as a testament to the values and principles upheld by the cannabis industry, transcending the boundaries of competition and highlighting the essence of a close-knit and supportive community.
Vermont’s cannabis industry is rising to the occasion, demonstrating that compassion and empathy can triumph over adversity. Through “A Higher Calling,” they are extending a helping hand to businesses affected by the recent floods, providing hope and strength to those facing significant challenges. By fostering a culture of collective support and unity, the cannabis community in Vermont is setting a commendable example for the industry nationwide. Together, they are proving that the power of togetherness can create a brighter and more resilient future for all.
