East Hudson Valley News

Dutchess County's inaugural Food Security Council meeting took place on Thursday, May 16. The council was established by Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino, who announced its creation during her State of the County Address in March.

"There are a record number of individuals seeking resources from the over 65 food pantries in Dutchess County, and that number has only increased after the pandemic," said Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino. "This is an issue that is affecting people of all walks of life. By bringing the right people to the table, the Food Security Council can provide guidance to policy makers on how to best address hunger, and we can strive to improve access to healthy, locally grown food for all of our neighbors."

The proposal for the Dutchess County Food Security Council came from Renee Fillette-Miccio, Executive Director of Dutchess Outreach. She proposed it as a response to the growing number of individuals and families relying on food pantries week after week.

"According to Feeding America’s most recent report, 29,700 residents of Dutchess County are food insecure. The food budget shortfall in our community is $24,638,000. While this is not unique to Dutchess County, it’s vitally important that we work together to find solutions. The charitable food system was never intended to provide long-term food support, nor can we. Yet, here we are each week greeting more children, seniors and working people who simply cannot afford to eat even one daily meal. It’s through local innovation, effective policies and practices that we can, and will, do better," said Renee Fillette-Miccio.

The goals of the Food Security Council include understanding and measuring food insecurity in Dutchess County; identifying root causes; reducing food waste; maximizing procurement opportunities; and suggesting policies for effectively reducing food insecurity.

Members of the inaugural council represent various industries including philanthropy, food purchasing assistance, nutrition, farming, education, health, and government.

"I am so grateful to Renee Fillette-Miccio for her advocacy in creating the Food Security Council. I look forward to hearing their feedback on how we can improve this critical issue facing neighbors all across Dutchess County," said Serino.

For more information or to get involved with the Food Security Council, individuals are encouraged to contact the Dutchess County Executive’s Office at 845-486-2000 or email CountyExec@dutchessny.gov.