Arlington County is observing Hunger Action Month this September by introducing a new funding opportunity for local organizations and releasing an updated Food Security Strategic Plan. These initiatives aim to strengthen food access and build a more resilient local food system over the next five years.
An estimated 13.4% of Arlington residents, approximately 31,500 people, experience food insecurity, meaning they lack consistent access to enough nutritious food. Anita Friedman, Director of the Arlington County Department of Human Services, said, "Food security is about more than food. It is about health, economic stability, and laying a strong foundation for every single member of our community to live long and full lives."
The Food Security Grants Program, established in 2024, supports nonprofit organizations working to improve food access and address barriers to food security. The new Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) aligns with the 2026–2030 Food Security Strategic Plan, which outlines three goals: increasing access to nutritious food, building a stronger food security network, and raising awareness of food insecurity.
Lily Duran, Arlington Food Assistance Center (AFAC) Chief of Member Services and a member of the Arlington Food Security Coalition, said, "The release of this plan and Arlington County’s continued investment in Food Security Grants during Hunger Action Month demonstrate the community’s commitment to strengthening the programs, partnerships and community supports that help Arlingtonians access healthy and nutritious foods they actually want to eat with dignity." Food insecurity has risen due to increasing food and housing costs, with AFAC serving around 4,000 households weekly in fiscal year 2026, more than double the number since 2020.
Throughout Hunger Action Month, Arlington County encourages community members to learn about food insecurity, volunteer with local organizations, and support food programs.