Empowering families: A collaborative approach to food and nutrition

Rising grocery prices put a dent in our wallets and make it harder to buy the healthiest food for ourselves and our families. About 13% of Oregon households (more than 220,000 families) are struggling to meet their food needs at home—with the biggest impact on rural families. Households that are uncertain of having, or unable to acquire, enough food due to a lack of money or other resources are often referred to as being food insecure.

"A good proportion of people are going without some degree of food access," says Ashley Green, CareOregon's Director of Population Health. "For Oregon and the various types of families that exist here-we're really seeing the impact of rising food costs and the growing inability to afford healthier, or really any, food."

Partners in food & nutrition

We continue to build a network of support that fosters a culture of access and sustainability for families as they make informed choices. Partners all over Oregon have made major strides toward educating communities about healthy eating and the best ways to utilize local resources for nutrition.

"It starts with reaching out to find resources," said Ashley. "What's in your ecosystem? Utilize primary care, local organizations and oftentimes your own family. Look into what you're a part of and determine where there might be information and resources to connect you to getting needs met."

• Meals on Wheels People: Meal Delivery
• Providence Teaching Kitchen: Community Teaching Kitchen and Outpatient Nutrition Services | Milwaukie Hospital
• Feed’em Freedom: Black Regional Food Hub
• NAYA Family Center: Food Sovereignty | Native American Youth and Family Center
• El Programa Hispano community wellness services: Food Justice
• Feed the Mass: Healthy Meals & Culinary Education
• OSU Extension Service: Nutrition Education and Outreach Programs

Additional local resources

• Oregon Food Bank: Feeding America
• Store to Door: Groceries for seniors and adults with disabilities
• Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon: Food Assistance
• Oregon.gov: Child and Adult Care Food Program
• Rogue Produce: Online Farmer’s Market