Assessing the Strengths and Weaknesses of Polk County Food Systems Security

According to a recent survey from the Pew Research Center, Americans that have difficulty putting food on the table increased from 16% in 2007 to 24% in 2013. Communities are now reacting to various issues that affect food systems whether it involves local businesses, farmers, limited income and vulnerable populations, or families. Using USDA resources and local data, counties can assess the current situation of poverty, food insecurity, and a wealth of other factors that play a role in this issue. This presentation will discuss the current status of food security in an agriculturally robust Central Florida County with limited crop diversity.  A synopsis of pertinent USDA statistics describe the need for increased food security, layered with local food infrastructure data such as access to processing facilities, to assess the potential of direct to consumer / institution/ restaurant marketing strategies to increase food security while providing entrepreneurial small farms a profitable business opportunity.  Ideas for programming and limitations will be shared as well as an overview of existing and potential partnerships to affect change and improve the overall food security picture.