As of November 3, Catie Mahoney is the new executive director of the Ashland Community Food Bank. She brings ten years of experience from a larger food bank in Pennsylvania, where she focused on food access and education. She also co-owned a vegetable farm, giving her a unique perspective on local food systems.
Outgoing director Amey Broeker, who has been with the food bank since 2022, will help Mahoney transition into her new role until her retirement on December 31. Broeker describes them as a “dynamic duo” with complementary skills. “I have the historical knowledge, while Catie brings fresh ideas from a larger food bank setting,” Broeker said.
Mahoney began her role during significant changes in federal food assistance programs. In her first week, she adapted to the loss of November SNAP benefits, which has increased demand at the food bank. “We’re on the front lines supporting our community. We’re here to ensure quality service despite these changes,” Mahoney shared. She emphasizes that community support is vital for maintaining their services.
Recent statistics reveal that food bank demands are increasing. According to a report from the Feeding America network, food banks experienced a 40% increase in demand during 2022 compared to the previous year. Broeker noted that in October alone, they had nearly double the number of new households seeking help.
One challenge Mahoney faces is securing funding. In Pennsylvania, she dealt with budget delays that affected food purchases. “Adapting to funding changes is something I know well. We must ensure we can meet rising demands,” she explained.
New data also show rising healthcare costs impacting food security. Many families already facing financial stress now struggle even more due to increasing health premiums. “It’s layers of financial challenges,” Broeker said, emphasizing the need for community solutions, like improving local public transport to help people access food resources.
Both Mahoney and Broeker forsee a future focused on community engagement and nutrition. Mahoney believes in providing fresh foods alongside pantry staples. Her experience at the vegetable farm taught her the importance of nutrition in food aid. “I want to educate people on how to grow their own food and utilize what we provide effectively,” Mahoney stated. She aims to offer resources and recipes for families utilizing the food bank.
The personal motivations behind their work are strong. Mahoney recalls using community support in her youth, often lacking fresh foods in aid programs. Broeker shares her story of being a single mom who felt ashamed to seek help. “We’ve made strides against that stigma. Everyone in need is welcome here,” she emphasized.
Mahoney’s first steps include visiting local schools, like the Willow Wind Community Learning Center, to inspire children about nutrition and food systems. “By connecting with kids, we plant seeds for the future,” she said.
As Mahoney steps into her role, she is eager to learn from the staff and volunteers who have built a solid foundation. “I want to immerse myself in this community and gather feedback to enhance our services,” she concluded.
To learn more about the Ashland Community Food Bank services or support, visit their website at ashlandcfb.org.
