Ohio Association of Foodbanks Calls for Action: Tackling Food Insecurity in the State Budget

The Ohio Association of Foodbanks is pushing for urgent funding in the upcoming 2026-2027 state budget due to a growing demand for food assistance across Ohio. Recent statistics show that foodbanks are seeing more visitors than ever before, marking a 58% increase in children and a 90% increase in older adults seeking help compared to 2017.

On February 12, the association hosted “Friends of the Foodbanks Day” at the Ohio Statehouse. This event brought together food pantry leaders, farms, faith communities, and hunger relief advocates. They came together to highlight the essential role of state funding in providing nutritious food to families in all 88 counties of Ohio.

During the event, Joree Novotny, the executive director of the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, spoke about the increasing pressure on the state’s hunger relief network. She emphasized the necessity of consistent funding for programs like the Ohio Food Program and the Ohio Agricultural Clearance Program. These initiatives work closely with local farmers to provide essential food items.

According to Novotny, investing in these programs does more than just meet immediate food needs. It can lead to better educational outcomes, job opportunities, and improved health in communities. The Ohio Food Program supplies shelf-stable and fresh foods, while the Agricultural Clearance Program helps recover surplus products from farmers, supporting nearly 300 local jobs in the process.

A panel discussion, led by Novotny, included representatives from various organizations, each sharing their unique experiences in addressing hunger. They all agreed that continued state funding is crucial for foodbanks to operate effectively.

Sadly, in a time of rising need, the governor’s proposed budget includes a reduction of $7.5 million per year for these vital programs, leaving only $24.55 million in funding. The Ohio Association of Foodbanks is actively seeking to reverse this cut and secure additional support to keep pace with inflation and growing demands.

The association’s efforts reach beyond just financial support. They work to ensure that no one in Ohio has to struggle with food insecurity. For more information on their mission, visit www.OhioFoodbanks.org.

In Ohio, hunger is a pressing issue, but organizations like the Ohio Association of Foodbanks are dedicated to making a difference. They are committed to ensuring that every resident has access to the food they need. This work is vital for the health and stability of communities across the state.

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