Sponsor – The following content is produced on behalf of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Jefferson County and does not reflect the opinions of Gray Media or its editorial team. To learn more about Cornell Cooperatives’ expansion in Jefferson County, visit ccejefferson.org.

In a concerted effort to combat food insecurity in rural areas, Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) of Jefferson County and the Community Action Planning Council (CAPC) have teamed up to launch the CAPC Mobile Food Pantry, which aims to provide needed resources to underserved communities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy developed by the Jefferson County Food Policy Council to address the challenges low-income families face in accessing fresh, nutritious food. Both organizations focus on combating food insecurity by increasing access to healthy food options. The mobile food pantry is a core focus of both organizations, which have joined forces to create a stronger and more successful program.

According to recent data, approximately 17.8% of adults in Jefferson County are food insecure, lacking consistent access to affordable, healthy food. This problem disproportionately affects low-income families, older adults, people with disabilities, and those living in remote areas with limited transportation options. Recognizing the need for effective solutions, the Food Policy Council brought CCE Jefferson and CAPC together to increase emergency food supplies throughout the county, resulting in the creation of a mobile food pantry.

The mobile food pantry not only delivers food directly to rural residents, but also promotes community involvement and support. By turning food distribution into an opportunity for social interaction, the initiative encourages residents to connect with each other and access additional resources. “The mobile food pantry represents sustainability,” said Lindsey Promitas, local food program manager at CCE Jefferson. “This serves as a reminder that in difficult times, the community comes together to support each other.”

In addition to the mobile food pantry, CCE Jefferson supports other initiatives to improve food access. These include promoting the adoption of SNAP-EBT at farmers’ markets and promoting partnerships between local producers and Stewart’s Shops to supply stores located in food deserts. Together, these efforts aim to increase access to fresh, healthy, local foods for low-income communities throughout the county.

Caroline Fisler, director of the Community Action Planning Council’s family center, emphasized the critical role of emergency food delivery services. “By providing temporary food assistance, we fight hunger and maintain stability in society,” she explained. The mobile food pantry solves the transportation problems faced by many residents, allowing people like a single mother of two living in a remote area who struggles to get to the nearest grocery store to access nutritious food without the burden of long drives. Ms. Fisler also hears stories from seniors who are grateful for the service due to mobility restrictions and the associated challenges of leaving the house to access resources.

As the Mobile Food Pantry initiative continues to grow, it has become a vital resource for Jefferson County, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to maintain healthy eating habits, no matter their circumstances. Through collaboration and community support, CCE Jefferson and CAPC are working together to create a more equitable food system for all.

To learn more about the Mobile Food Pantry and other food assistance programs, visit https://ccejefferson.org/nutrition/food-assistance-programs or capcjc.org.