Recent crises, including the Typhoon Halong disaster, the extended government shutdown and subsequent SNAP delays dramatically impacted the need for food assistance in Alaska this season.
In response, Governor Dunleavy’s Administration recently invested $4 million in funds to bolster food sourcing and distribution efforts to Food Bank of Alaska’s partners. This support has helped to cushion the impact of recent events and will provide much-needed food support through the summer for communities around the state.
Food Bank of Alaska sources and distributes food to roughly 150 partner agencies across the state, from Ketchikan to Kotzebue, who then distribute that food to Alaskans in need within their local communities.
This funding has allowed Food Bank of Alaska to dramatically increase our food purchasing in a time of increased need. As a result, millions of additional meals are moving through the statewide network to communities facing heightened food insecurity.
Already, our partners in communities across Alaska are receiving much-needed additional food assistance:
“It's heartening to see the state of Alaska make this investment in ... our network of food banks and pantries as nexuses of community support,” said Daniel Parks, Executive Director of Southeast Alaska Food Bank. “With historic cuts to federal food assistance programs looming, we expect to work hand-in-hand with the state to achieve our mission of ensuring access to nutritious food for all Alaskans."
MatSu Food Bank Executive Director, Fred Becker, noted increases in need “across every service category over the past three years.”
“Without the support of our dedicated volunteers, generous donors, and community partners, including the Food Bank of Alaska, which has helped distribute State of Alaska emergency food funds, we could not meet the growing demand,” Becker noted. “This state funding has been essential in helping us provide individuals and families with access to healthy, adequate food during a time of rising living costs."
Although SNAP benefits have since been restored, the delay created further hardship for many already facing food insecurity. In response to the heightened need, Food Bank of Alaska is also hiring additional staff to support necessary operational adjustments and enable rapid distribution made possible by this grant and other financial support. This investment reflects the State’s commitment to stabilizing food access during a challenging winter season.
“Our community continues to show up with heart, grit, and a deep commitment to one another during an incredibly challenging season,” said Cara Durr, CEO of Food Bank of Alaska. “The State’s support allows us to move quickly, purchase food at scale, and get it where it is needed most in this time of heightened uncertainty and need. This partnership reflects what is possible when we treat food access as essential for Alaska’s wellbeing.”
For interviews, additional context, or local angles, please reach out to media@foodbankofalaska.org.
