County Response To Food Disparity and Insecurity

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2021

Alachua County coordinated a county-wide food distribution program in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic to assist in meeting food needs of residents that resulted in identifying an underserved food insecure population. Local government collaborated with municipalities, community and faith-based organizations, constitutional offices and citizens. The objective of the program began with a focus of ensuring access to food for residents challenged with transportation, health, and income disparities. Alachua County employed the use of GIS mapping, public safety personnel, case managers and other supportive staff to create, operate and administer the program. Alachua County staff assessed individual households that self-reported health concerns, transportation difficulties and the inability to access food. Whereas, some citizens only had physical limitations that prevented them from accessing food, other citizens reported having limited or no income to purchase food and supplies deemed important during the pandemic. In addition, another subgroup came to the forefront, the “hidden hungry”. The “hidden hungry” are residents that have food insecurities, but refrain from seeking services for varying reasons. This subgroup's expressed need was not necessarily a byproduct of the pandemic; however, this health crisis provided the vehicle to respond to previously unidentified needs with an ongoing program. Alachua County is now able to connect ""hidden hungry"" households with food in addition to social service