Flipping the Page on Food Access

Author: Hannah Colby, RD, LD, CLS

Community Health Specialist with Aitkin County Public Health

In an effort to enhance community engagement and provide valuable resources, the Find Food Aitkin County website has introduced an innovative feature: the Feeding Our Community Resource Library, a virtual bookshelf equipped with interactive flip books. This new addition aims to offer residents easy access to a variety of information related to food resources, nutrition, and local programs.

The virtual bookshelf is designed to simulate the experience of browsing through physical books. Users can "flip" through pages of digital publications, making the exploration of topics both engaging and user-friendly. This feature is particularly beneficial for those seeking detailed guides, recipes, or educational materials without the need to download large files or navigate away from the site.

Currently, the bookshelf features two valuable flip books:

📖 Thyme for Savings

At the farmers market, fresh, local food is for everyone—and Thyme for Savings is here to help you make the most of your shopping experience! This resource is a guide to stretching your dollars while bringing home the best seasonal produce, meats, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned market-goer or visiting for the first time, this book shows you how to maximize your budget through special savings programs designed to make healthy, local food more affordable.

Inside, you’ll discover programs like Power of Produce (PoP) Coupons for kids and seniors, which provide additional produce dollars, and the Market Bucks program, where SNAP shoppers can triple their spending power. There’s also information on the Minnesota WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Incentive, which offers extra benefits to families purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables. Plus, this guide includes practical tips for shopping smarter, meeting local farmers, and making delicious, budget-friendly meals with market finds.

Shopping at the farmers market isn’t just about saving money—it’s about building a stronger, healthier community. Every dollar spent supports local growers, strengthens the regional food system, and brings fresh, nutritious food to the table.

📖 Find Food Aitkin County Guide

Navigating food resources in Aitkin County has never been easier! The Find Food Aitkin County Guide is a comprehensive resource designed to connect residents with food assistance, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious meals when they need them most. This guide includes vital information on emergency food assistance, food shelves, and community meal programs, helping individuals and families find reliable sources of nourishment. It also highlights mobile food pantry programs and pop-up food distributors, making it easier to access fresh and shelf-stable foods throughout the county. Additionally, there is a dedicated section Just for Seniors, featuring specialized meal programs and grocery resources tailored to older adults.

With user-friendly navigation and easy-to-follow information, this guide empowers residents to access the food they need for themselves and their families. By integrating the Feeding Our Community Resource Library, Find Food Aitkin County ensures that local food resources are more accessible than ever. Visit findfoodaitkincounty.org today and start exploring these valuable guides!