Food Security Week Fly-in Recap
By Rachel Lord, Advocacy and Policy Director
Alaska Food Coalition members in front of the state capitol building in Juneau, AK during Food Security Week 2024
Last week, Juneau witnessed a powerful gathering of food advocates, as dozens of individuals from across the state converged upon Alaska’s capitol building to champion the cause of food access and security. Under the banner of “Everyone Eats! Food Security Week,” these advocates brought a resounding message of support and encouragement to legislators embarking on the state budget process and engaged in policy making.
Alaska Department of Health Commissioner Heidi Hedberg (center) with Alaska Food Coalition members during Food Security Week 2024
Rachel Lord, AFPC; Representative Frank Tomaszewski (District 34 Fairbanks); Clay Venetis, Fairbanks Farm Access
Spearheaded by the Alaska Food Coalition and in partnership with AFPC, the Alaska Farm Bureau, the Alaska Farmers Market Association, and the Alaska Farmland Trust, the week was brimming with insightful discussions and impactful meetings. Highlights included an enlightening overview from Feeding America on SNAP policies across different states and The Emergency Food Access Program (TEFAP), a vital USDA federal nutrition initiative. Attendees had invaluable connections and conversations with key figures from various state agencies, including the Department of Education & Early Childhood Development, the Division of Public Assistance, and WIC staff.
Legislative meetings were a cornerstone of the event, with advocates engaging with senators, representatives, and their staff members. Discussions ranged from addressing SNAP policies to advocating for greater support for food security initiatives. Legislative offices expressed strong support for food security during our meetings, resulting in significant progress for the coalition in communicating our priorities and concerns. Together, we met with every office in Alaska’s 60 member legislature!
Colin Peacock, AFPC and Amy Seitz Executive Directory of the Alaska Farm Bureau
One pivotal moment was the hearing of SB149 in the Senate Health & Social Services Committee, where partners offered compelling public testimony encouraging the adoption of Broad Based Categorical Eligibility as a major improvement to Alaska’s SNAP program. Additionally, AFPC staff and other partners provided testimony on the Governor's CROP Act in both House and Senate Resources Committees.
The week culminated in an evening reception at the Rookery, where attendees celebrated the spirit of advocacy and collaboration. With a packed house and enthusiastic participation from legislators and stakeholders, it underscored the collective commitment to ensuring that everyone has the right to access nutritious food.
Erika Merklin (Haines), and AFPC Board Member Milena Sevigny
Food Security Fly-In Week in Juneau served as a powerful testament to the dedication of advocates and policymakers alike in addressing food insecurity and promoting equitable access to food for all Alaskans. Throughout the rest of the legislative session, we’ll continue providing you with updates on critical issues and bills impacting Alaska’s food system. If you have questions, ideas, or comments, never hesitate to reach out!
Left Photo: Amy Seitz, Alaska Farm Bureau; Rachael Miller, Food Bank of Alaska; Robbi Mixon, AFPC
Right Photo: Ron Meehan, Food Bank of Alaska/Alaska Food Coalition; Representative Donna Mears (District 21, Anchorage)
