United Way of Wapello County to Host Community Conversation Centered on Community Gardens, Farmers Markets and Other Fresh Food Projects
14.8% of Wapello County residents are food insecure, meaning that they do not have the ability to acquire nutritionally, adequate and safe foods in socially acceptable ways. Over 24% of children are food insecure and summer brings on additional challenges for children as they will not have the free and reduced price food programs offered during the school year.
Community gardens, farmers markets and other fresh food projects are a few of the strategies that can help reduce the rate of food insecurity in Wapello County as well as increase access to nutritional, affordable food.
Organizations and individuals who have an interest in community gardens, farmers markets, and other fresh food projects are invited to join others for a conversation about projects and programs centered on food availability/sustainability in Wapello County. Desiree Johnson, President and CEO of United Way of Wapello County says, “A number of projects are either on their way or in the developmental stages and it is a good idea to share information and collaborate as a group. Ultimately, there are enough organizations and businesses who have a focus on addressing food insecurity and food availability in our community, that a community action plan will be developed along with measurements on how initiatives are collectively impacting our community.” “By working together, we can see real change happen in our community.”
The meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 8 from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the United Way offices located at 224 East Second Street in Ottumwa. Space is limited, so please rsvp by emailing United Way at uwwc@wapellocouw.org or calling 641.682.1264 no later than noon on April 5.