Combating Food Insecurity: Montgomery County's Comprehensive Approach

In a strategic move to address the pressing issue of food insecurity, Montgomery County officials have taken a significant step forward by establishing a Food Policy Council. This council, comprising a diverse team of experts, aims to consolidate the efforts of various agencies and organizations in the region, ultimately ensuring that every resident has access to adequate and nutritious food.

Empowering the Community: Montgomery County's Food Policy Council Takes Action

Assembling a Diverse Leadership Team

Montgomery County Commissioners have approved a seven-member leadership team for the newly established Food Policy Council. This team brings together a range of expertise, including educators, nonprofit directors, business owners, and individuals with experience in the food pantry space. Additionally, the council includes county employees from various departments, such as commerce, planning commission, public health, and senior services, ensuring a comprehensive and collaborative approach to addressing food insecurity.

Addressing a Systemic Challenge

According to Feeding America, more than 1.2 million people in Pennsylvania experience hunger. In Montgomery County, the situation is equally concerning, with around 7% of residents considered food insecure as of March 2023. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the problem, highlighting the critical importance of resources like food pantries.

Consolidating Efforts for Maximum Impact

The Food Policy Council was established in March, with the goal of consolidating the efforts of different agencies in the region. Food Policy Coordinator Sam Applefield emphasizes the need for a multi-pronged approach that focuses on equity, sustainability, accessibility, and outreach. The leadership team will be tasked with providing "strategic guidance and direction" for the council, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to the issue of food insecurity.

Boosting the Local Food Economy

Montgomery County Commissioner Tom DiBello underscores the importance of elevating the county's local agricultural industries and businesses as part of the solution. The Food Policy Council Leadership Team will work closely with county departments to gain a comprehensive understanding of the region's food distribution network, with the aim of promoting the local food economy and strengthening the county's food distribution capabilities.

Tracking Progress and Identifying Needs

Data from the MontCo Anti-Hunger Network-partner agencies reveals the ongoing challenges faced by the community. In 2022, the network recorded 155,799 household visits and 64,967 individual visits. While the numbers fluctuated throughout the spring and summer of 2023, the need for food assistance remains high, with over 22,859 meals served in May 2023 alone.

Engaging the Community

The Food Policy Council's leadership team includes a diverse range of individuals, each bringing unique perspectives and expertise to the table. From program managers and professors to business owners and foundation directors, this team is poised to drive meaningful change and provide strategic guidance to the council.

Expanding Participation and Collaboration

The county's commitment to addressing food insecurity extends beyond the leadership team, with additional participants from various county departments, including workforce development, public health, planning commission, and senior services. This collaborative approach aims to create a coordinated food system that better serves the residents of Montgomery County.

Moving Forward with Optimism

As the Food Policy Council prepares to launch its general membership meetings later this year, Montgomery County Commissioners' Vice Chairman Neil Makhija expresses optimism about the council's ability to make significant strides towards the goal of ensuring food security for all residents. The council's focus on analyzing the current system of food distribution and anti-hunger efforts, coupled with the diverse expertise of its leadership team, suggests a promising path forward in the fight against food insecurity in Montgomery County.