The Power of Partnership: How Public Health Is Combatting Food Insecurity in Aitkin County

Author: Hannah Colby, RD, LD, CLS

Community Health Specialist with Aitkin County Public Health.

In Aitkin County, Minnesota, food insecurity is a pressing issue affecting many individuals and families. Public health professionals understand that food insecurity occurs when people lack consistent access to healthy and affordable food. This lack of access often leads to poor nutrition, which can cause people to make lower-quality dietary choices or, in some cases, skip meals entirely. The consequences of food insecurity go far beyond hunger—poor nutrition is linked to long-term health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, weight management issues, and even mental health disorders.

In Aitkin County, the situation is concerning. Approximately 34% of residents live at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, making it a constant struggle to meet the cost of essential needs like food. For many in the community, purchasing enough nutritious food is a daily challenge. In fact, 64% of residents report facing a barrier to acquiring adequate food due to the high cost of food. The burden of food insecurity on public health is significant. Research indicates that the annual healthcare costs associated with food insecurity in Aitkin County amount to $2,079.01 per person (Berkowitz et al., 2019). This underscores the financial impact not only on families but also on the healthcare system, which bears the strain of treating preventable health conditions linked to poor nutrition.

Aitkin County’s food insecurity rate is 9.6%, higher than the state’s average of 6.8% (University of Minnesota Food Insecurity Dashboard, 2021-2023). Even more troubling is the rate of food insecurity among children. Aitkin County has the third-highest rate of food insecure children in Minnesota, with 17.9%—or 470 children—going without the food they need to grow, learn, and thrive (Feeding America, 2021). This has long-term implications for their physical and cognitive development.

Adding to the challenge, Aitkin County is considered a food desert, meaning that many residents live in areas where access to fresh and healthy food is limited. These areas lack grocery stores, farmer’s markets, and other sources of nutritious food. As a result, people often have to rely on convenience stores or fast food, which tend to offer lower-quality, less nutritious options.

Public health in Aitkin County has taken significant steps to address food insecurity by fostering partnerships and implementing programs that provide residents with access to nutritious food. One of the key efforts in the community is the Food Rx program, which connects individuals and families facing food insecurity with fresh, healthy food. This program empowers participants by providing them with prescriptions in which they receive a CSA share from the Aitkin Farmers Market Hub and Riverwood Connects Market Bucks to spend at the Aitkin Farmers Market, helping to improve their health outcomes. In addition, Riverwood Healthcare Center has also introduced Farm Fresh boxes (short - term), available on a monthly basis during the winter months. These boxes offer locally grown, fresh produce to residents who may otherwise struggle to access such nutritious options during the colder months when fresh produce can be scarce. Riverwood Healthcare Center also offers emergency pantry packs for patients who are being seen and are in need of food. This initiative provides immediate support to those facing food insecurity, ensuring that individuals do not go without the basics while receiving care.

The Super Shelf transformation at Aitkin First Lutheran Church is another example of innovation in addressing food insecurity. This project has redefined the food shelf experience, making it more accessible and welcoming for community members while ensuring they have access to a variety of nutritious options (2023 Community Food Shelf at Aitkin First Lutheran Church Evaluation).

Aitkin’s Farmers Market has become an essential resource for families facing food insecurity, as it now accepts WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Incentive Coupons, Market Bucks, and Produce Bucks. These programs make it easier for families to stretch their food dollars while supporting local farmers. Additionally, Riverwood Connects Market Bucks and PoP (Power of Produce) Coupons for both kids and seniors further encourage healthy eating and make fresh produce more accessible to all members of the community.

The Hill City Community Garden is another vital initiative helping to combat food insecurity in Aitkin County. This community-driven project provides residents with the space, tools, and knowledge needed to grow their own fruits and vegetables. By fostering local food production, the garden not only increases access to fresh produce but also strengthens community ties and promotes self-sufficiency. Residents can take advantage of educational opportunities in gardening while benefiting from a sustainable source of nutritious food. Additionally, the community garden offers mental health benefits by providing a space to engage with nature, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being through outdoor activities.

Additionally, both the Aitkin and Hill City School Districts have embraced the Farm to School program, enhancing local food access by incorporating fresh, locally grown produce into school meals. This initiative not only supports healthy eating habits among students but also connects them with local farmers, fostering a sense of community and environmental responsibility. By engaging students in the importance of local agriculture, these programs contribute to a healthier future for both the students and the broader community.

To ensure that all these resources are easily accessible, a new Find Food Aitkin County website has been launched. This platform is designed to connect residents with local food resources, making it easier for them to find available food programs and services in their area.

These partnerships and programs reflect a multi-faceted approach to addressing food insecurity in Aitkin County. By combining healthcare, local food access, and community-based efforts, public health has taken significant steps to combat food insecurity, improve health outcomes, and create a more supportive and resilient community.

Sources:

• 2020 Aitkin County Bridge to Health Survey

• Aitkin County using data from Feeding America. Food insecurity statistics are as of 2021

• University of Minnesota Food Insecurity Dashboard as of 2021 - 2023

• 2023 Community Food Shelf at Aitkin First Lutheran Church Evaluation

• Find Food Aitkin County Website Analytics (Insights)

• Berkowitz, S. A., Basu, S., Gundersen, C., & Seligman, H. K. (2019). State-Level and County-Level Estimates of Health Care Costs Associated with Food Insecurity. Preventing Chronic Disease, 16. https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd16.180549

www.findfoodaitkincounty.org