On April 18, 2023, Neighborhood Programs staff members Jennifer Carlson, Betsy Barclay and Shelby Mammano recently attended the Feeding Champaign County Food Summit at the Illinois Terminal. Presenters from several different organizations within Champaign County spoke about food access and security. Food banks, meal distribution, soup kitchens, community gardens and learning kitchens are some of the many services provided locally to aid in healthy nutrition for those who may be food insecure. Presenters shared what successes and challenges their organizations are experiencing while addressing these needs locally, and the desire for more collaborative efforts in filling the resource gaps.
Here are some local data points that were shared:
- In 2020, the food insecurity rate in Champaign County was 11%.
- 39.2% of adults consume less than one fruit per day, and 16.6% consume less than one vegetable per day.
- 42.9% of adolescents consume less than one fruit per day, and 44.4% consume less than one vegetable per day.