Pickett County coalition expands food security efforts through strategic planning and community partnerships

In a pivotal meeting on May 27, 2025, the Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) focused on addressing food insecurity in the community, highlighting the collaborative efforts among local organizations to tackle this pressing issue. The session featured a detailed overview of the ongoing initiatives and strategic planning aimed at improving access to nutritious food for residents.

Sam Lander Casper, Deputy Director of Human Services, presented a comprehensive timeline of food security efforts dating back to 2017. He emphasized the formation of the Safe and Abundant Nutrition Alliance, a coalition that includes various stakeholders from Eagle and Garfield counties, aimed at streamlining food assistance programs across the region. This coalition has been instrumental in identifying gaps in food access and coordinating resources to better serve the community.

A significant point of discussion was the establishment of a food hub, which aims to centralize food distribution and support local agricultural producers. The feasibility study for this hub, funded by multiple local organizations, has provided valuable insights into potential locations and operational strategies. The Emma Store building was mentioned as a possible site, pending further assessments and funding opportunities.

The board also addressed the challenges posed by decreasing federal funding for food assistance programs, which could impact local organizations like Lift Up and Harvest for Hunger. The need for a strategic plan to secure alternative funding sources was underscored, with Casper noting the importance of engaging the community and volunteers to sustain these efforts.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed a commitment to continue refining their approach to food security, with plans to present a detailed gap analysis and strategic recommendations in future sessions. The collaborative spirit among local agencies and the proactive measures being taken signal a concerted effort to ensure that all residents have access to healthy food options, particularly in light of the anticipated challenges ahead.