February 25, 2026 | Heather Tomlinson, Shihui Yang
Disasters—natural or man-made—can disrupt our food systems in big ways. Think of events like hurricanes or earthquakes, but also consider ongoing issues like economic instability. These shocks can make it hard for people to access the food they need. Those who are already vulnerable, such as low-income families, often find themselves struggling the most during these times.
Many state governments across the U.S. are stepping up to build stronger food systems. They know that planning is crucial to weather these challenges. The key is to have effective strategies in place that can respond to these disruptions. However, guidance on how to do this is lacking.
A new planning guide has been developed to help states create resilient food systems. This guide offers practical tools and ideas to strengthen food access and availability. It’s based on a larger resource originally designed for local governments by the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future and the Bloomberg Center for Government Excellence. Now, it’s been customized for state needs.
Experts highlight the importance of proactive planning. According to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 14% of U.S. households faced food insecurity in 2022. That’s a serious concern, especially when natural disasters strike. This guide aims to help states minimize the impact of such events and ensure that food systems remain stable.
For those wanting to dig deeper, the original guide for local governments can provide more context and ideas. Understanding the broader picture can help in shaping effective policies.
For anyone interested in this vital topic, you can explore the full report here: Food System Resilience: A Planning Guide for Local Governments.
