Just Food seeks $50,000 funding amid increased demand from local pantries

During the Douglas County Board of Commissioners budget hearings on July 10, 2025, discussions highlighted the pressing needs of local food pantries and the implications of funding requests for community services. The meeting underscored the critical role of food assistance programs in addressing food insecurity in the region, particularly as demand continues to rise.

A significant portion of the conversation focused on the partnerships between local schools and food pantries. Representatives noted that they collaborate with various educational institutions, including Lawrence High School and Eudora Public School District, to provide food assistance. Currently, there are 28 partners involved, including Haskell University and the University of Kansas, which help facilitate food distribution. However, challenges remain, especially for districts like Perry Lecompton, where some students attend schools outside of Douglas County, complicating access to resources.

The discussion also touched on the operational aspects of food distribution. For instance, while there is no pantry located at Lecompton Grade School, local efforts are coordinated by community members who ensure families receive necessary food supplies. The mobile food pantry service extends to Baldwin, Eudora, and Lecompton, reflecting a proactive approach to meet community needs.

A critical point raised during the meeting was the financial strain on food assistance programs. One representative expressed concern about the potential for an emergency situation due to increasing demand, stating that they served 242 households in just three hours recently. This surge in need has led to discussions about the necessity of additional funding, specifically a request for $50,000, to prepare for future challenges rather than merely to avoid depleting existing fund balances.

The commissioners also explored the implications of this funding request, noting that it could double the county's current financial support for food assistance programs. This increase would elevate the funding relationship to a service agreement, which would require further discussions on the scope of services provided.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of addressing food insecurity in Douglas County was clear. The anticipated increase in funding and the establishment of service agreements could significantly enhance the capacity of local food pantries to serve the community. The board's next steps will involve careful consideration of these requests and the broader implications for community welfare as they finalize the budget for the upcoming year.